As the temperatures start to turn colder, we all deserve a bit of extra warmth and coziness! Remodeling your home to install better insulation and a more efficient heating system is a sure way to improve your comfort.
For optimum comfort, your house should be properly insulated to prevent heat from escaping. Fall is the ideal time to improve your home’s insulation, from the basement to the attic. Regardless of the type of insulation product – fibreglass wool, polyurethane foam or other – you need to take the RSI-value (or R-value) into account. This number is given on the insulation packaging; it represents thermal resistance for every inch of thickness of the material. The higher the RSI-value, the more resistance the material has to the movement of heat and therefore the greater its insulation value.
What could be nicer than coming home to a warm house after a bracing walk in the crisp autumn air? To ensure everyone’s comfort, a good heating system is a must. Electric baseboards are affordable, versatile and heat all rooms efficiently. Space heaters, such as a convection heater, will quickly warm up a room, even on the coldest day. If you are planning on renovating your bathroom or kitchen, consider installing underfloor heating to keep your feet nice and warm. A stove or fireplace can help you save on your energy bill as well as providing an extra boost to your central heating in very cold weather. What’s more, a wood stove or built-in fireplace installed in your living room or family room will make for a comfy, cozy atmosphere in which to relax on winter evenings. In all cases, remember that proper upkeep is essential to maintain good air quality and ensure everyone’s safety.
As the thermometer drops, your energy costs – especially your heating bill – can quickly escalate. Unless, that is, you use more energy-efficient solutions. Look for ways to reduce your energy consumption and minimize costs. Are you thinking about changing your windows? Check out the insulating properties of thermal glass. Other energy-efficient products, such as a programmable thermostat, replacement water heater or new caulking and weatherstripping, will all help you effectively withstand the rigours of winter! If you want to go a step further, you could also consider a home automation system, which involves connecting the various communication systems in your home onto one automated network. Not only does this make your life easier but it could also be an additional cost-saver.
With daylight hours getting shorter, your home needs to be well lit. Ensure you have suitable lighting both inside and outside, so you can see clearly in all light conditions. Install dimmer switches so you can adjust the amount of light to suit your needs. Recessed lights offer an effective source of basic ambient light, while floor lamps, table lamps and wall sconces add coziness and warmth and put the final touches to your decor.
Make the most of the fresh fall days to work on improvements to your home to enhance your comfort through the winter season. An efficient heating system, good insulation and low-energy appliances will help make your home a cozy haven where all the family will enjoy spending warm evenings during the coming months.