Green Tip: Insulate, Air-Seal to Retain Warmth in Winter

Published 08.23.2011

News

Cool evenings are a reminder that winter is rushing toward us. Take time to evaluate the insulation and air-sealing of your home. Remember that they are not the same, nor are they always treated the same way. Insulation should be installed on the thermal envelope of your house where inside temperature is on one side of the surface and outside temperature is on the other. The more R-value, the better. Air-sealing is done by stopping air movement through the thermal envelope, including top-floor ceiling and outside walls. Materials for air-sealing include caulk and spray foam, as well as foamboard-type insulation. PCToday "Green Tips" are brought to you by Penn College's Energy Conservation Subcommittee; email Chairman Rick Taylor with any ideas for future energy-saving advice.