Heating and cooling account for 50-70% of energy use in American homes, so it is important to ensure that these systems are functioning at their peak capacities.  Proper insulation can reduce the draw on these systems by up to 30%.  Sometimes, hiring a professional is necessary to remedy a poorly insulated building, but there are a number of things you can do to improve your home’s insulation.

To test the seal around your windows and doors, light a stick of incense and hold it around the frames.  If you see the smoke being blown away from the frame rather than rising straight up, there is a leak.  If you find a leak, you can repair it easily with some caulk, clear sealant, or weather stripping.  By sure to put weather stripping under all doors that lead to the outside, as drafts most often enter through these openings.  Also be sure to close your chimney flue when not using the fire place.

Installing upgraded insulation in your attic is a relatively simple project because unfinished attics are easy to access, as opposed to walls and floors, which require significant construction.  The attic is also the most effective place to insulate, because it gets the most direct sun.  Purchase insulation with a high R-value, which measures its ability to repel temperatures.  While wearing protective clothing, measure and cut insulation for all spaces between rafters, and attach the pieces using a staple gun.  Visit this site for more detailed instructions.