With the GrainHome Improvement Tips and Tricks

Everyone wants to save money, particularly on energy bills.  Here are some tips for designing a new home, or renovating an old one, so it is energy efficient:

• Create large over-hangs in order to keep the elements from damaging the exterior of your house better, and to prevent sun from shining directly into your windows (thus, reducing cooling costs).
• Use insulated concrete forms when installing a foundation because they have been proven to be more energy efficient.
• Use passive solar heat in order to allow the winter sun to warm your home through southern windows.

The initial costs for energy efficiency can be high, but they pay off in the long run.  Speak to your contractor about more ways you can become more energy efficient!

Insulating is one home improvement project you do not want to put off.  Proper insulation will aid in both the heating and the cooling of your home. With rising energy costs, the last thing you want to do is have the wrong or improper insulation in your home.

There a number of home insulation types to choose from.  If you are unsure which is right, or how much you need for your home it is important to speak to a insulation contractor or a specialist at your local home improvement store.

Here are some links to get you started on your research:

• Suite101: Types of Home Insulation

• Home Tips: Home Insulation Buying Guide

• Insulation For Homes

• Types of Home Insulation

• DoItYourself.com: Types of Home Insulation

For those DIY’ers who do not know their R-Value from their elbow, it is very important to read up on the types of insulations, why they are important, and which is right for your home.  Walking into this situation without the proper information will only lead to more problems, higher home improvement costs, and frustrations for all who are involved.  Do your homework!