indoors
L I V I N G
G R E E N
How to conserve energy, live healthier, and save money
T H IS M O N T H
BYGREG COOK
“With home energy makeovers, you don’t just
get dollar savings. You’re also cozier and more
comfortable in your home. It’s really a win-win.”
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f o r y o u r u t i l i t y b i l l , y o u r f a m ily ,
a n d t h e e n v i r o n m e n t .
Adding insulation to your attic and walls is one
of the easiest and least expensive ways to save
energy and make your home more comfortable.
With proper sealing and insulation, you can save
up to 20 percent on heating and cooling costs,
according to estimates from the U.S. Energy
Department’s Energy Star program.
Good news: All insulation types are greener
than ever. Fiberglass batt, the most common
and affordable, is now available with recycled
content. Cellulose contains 85 percent recycled
content (ground or shredded newspaper), while
natural fibers, such as cotton (think old denim)
or sheep wool, are good for people with
chemical sensitivities. (Both of these loose-fill
insulation types have a green trade-off: They’re
treated with fire-retardant chemicals for safety.)
You’ll even find formaldehyde-free sprayfoam.
Like all foam insulation, it conforms to whatever
shape it encounters and expands to fill and seal.
Begin your insulation upgrade with profes-
sional help: Schedule a home energy' audit with
your local utility or hire a home energy rater.
When you’re ready to insulate, resist the
temptation to do it yourself—it’s a messy project
that can require special equipment and care.
Instead, hire an insulation contractor. Finally,
because insulation in some older homes may
contain asbestos, have your home inspected by a
state-certified asbestos abatement professional.
For more information, see
simplyinsulate.org.
9 8 \OVLMBLR 2008 BETTER HOMES AND GARDENS
P H O T O : JA S O N D O N N E L L Y
