Insulation and Home Heating

Homeowners may sometimes be concerned about the amount they spend on electricity and energy, and look for ways to minimize those expenses. Energy inefficiency can be costly over time, and flawed electrical, heating and air conditioning or other systems may be inconvenient as well.

In winter, for example, heat loss can mean extra layers or a higher heating bill. Taking care of such systems is important, but there is another factor that may be forgotten because it is not visible. Insulation traps warmth inside a home, and thin or lacking insulation can let heat escape, cooling it more rapidly than normal. Good insulation, and its effect on costs over time, may also be valuable selling points when it's time to move on.

Adding insulation

According to HouseLogic, homes may lack sufficient insulation for several reasons. It may have settled over time, and older homes may not have had enough in the first place. In such cases, heating and cooling costs are typically high, and the source notes improving wall insulation can save money over time. This takes a few years, but for a homeowner who intends to stay in place waiting may not be a problem.

While a household which moves frequently might not benefit as much, a more stationary family or individual can enjoy the impact on their comfort immediately and the financial benefits will come in time. The source notes adding wall insulation may be inconvenient in some homes, depending on construction. It can be easier to perform when siding is being replaced or as part of a larger remodeling effort.

Insulation comes in various types, some of which resist heat more effectively. Adding more insulation or replacing what is already present with a more effective alternative may each be beneficial, depending on the specifics of a home.

Attics and basements

The source notes adding attic insulation in such cases can make a significant difference, as can improvements focused on the basement. These areas are easy to overlook, because some people tend to spend little time in them, and can be major avenues of heat loss. As much as 30 percent of heat may be lost through basements, HouseLogic notes.

Depending on how extensive the work is, improving insulation may pay back an investment in as few as 3 or as many as 23 years, making it important for homeowners to weigh the benefits against how long they intend to stay in one place. For a couple planning to retire in their current location, a 23-year period of recouping on the investment may be worthwhile, particularly if they are more comfortable as that time passes. Home sellers might find it prohibitively expensive, however.

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Protect Your Home from Natural Disasters

Large-scale storms and natural disasters can come at a great personal and financial cost to homeowners. Homeowners who are prepared for these occurrences and aware of how to protect their assets may be in a stronger position to ride out storms and recoup their losses.

While there is little individuals can do to prevent significant damages, there are steps they can take to protect themselves and their home.

Ensure insurance coverage is adequate

The first step individuals should take to protect themselves during a disaster is ensuring they have sufficient homeowners insurance, according to Kiplinger. When it comes to purchasing insurance, many owners are only insured for the purchase price of the house. However, most experts recommend purchasing enough insurance to cover rebuilding costs. It can be helpful to speak with a contractor to determine how much the home would cost to rebuild and the types of materials used to construct the property. In addition, homeowners may consider purchasing additional coverage to replace expensive items, such as furniture, heirlooms and collectibles.

Make a household inventory list

It can be difficult for homeowners to know what they lost if they were unaware of what they had to begin with. It can be helpful for homeowners to complete and maintain a list of all their belongings, especially those that are valuable. This can include family heirlooms, collectibles, artwork and items that owners hold dear for personal reasons. As an added benefit, maintaining this list can also be helpful when selling a home and relocating when it comes to pinpointing items that may have been misplaced in the move.

Keep records safe

Holding documents in a guarded location, such as fireproof safe or bank deposit box, can put owners at ease when it comes to their most important information. This includes everything from property deeds and insurance records to birth certificates, passports and Social Security cards.

Create an emergency kit

Homeowners should focus on protecting their property and themselves in an emergency. Creating a kit filled with first-aid items, batteries, non perishables and emergency contact numbers can help owners ensure they are safe in the event of a disaster. In addition, owners should ensure they have cash in the kit as well for hotel and travel expenses.

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