Insulation may be on your mind now that the temperatures are dropping. Keeping your home well-insulated isn't only key in preserving your home's climate control, but can also help reduce energy costs by preventing energy leaks.
Traditional insulation, however, isn't the most eco-friendly of materials. If you'd prefer a greener option, try some of these options as discussed by This Old House.
*Cellulose, made of shredded newspapers and fire retardant. Cellulose is applied while damp and, when dry, works just as well as fiberglass.
*Cotton, which is an ideal insulation for floors and walls. Cotton insulation can be made from a variety of materials, including denim and other recycled cotton.
*Sheep's wool, a great natural alternative for insulation. According to This Old House, the sheep wool is fluffed and treated with pest control additives before being applied as insulation.
Colder months typically bring increased concerns about energy costs, which can vary widely depending on your heating source. The good news? There are two small things you can do to help prevent energy leaks, meaning you'll rack up noticeable savings on your energy bills.
The first? Install thermal shades. These are a great tool, especially if you can't afford to replace your home's existing insulation. Plus, thermal shades are helpful year-round. They block the sun in the summer, keeping your home cool, while also retaining heat in the winter so that you can keep your home comfy and cozy without spending a ton of money.
Thermal shades vary in price and can be found at many sources, including JC Penney. You'll be able to find thermal shades that suit your window type and home decor. Yep, that's right -- thermal shades are functional and they look nice, too. Think of it as an energy-saving win-win!
You know the ubiquitous pink fiberglass insulation? That's Owens Corning and although everyone continues to seek out a better and more green insulation, fiberglass insulation isn't going away anytime soon.
Owens Corning isn't sitting on their laurels as they continue to redevelop their product and is now one of the largest users of recycled glass in the world. According to the Scientific Certification Systems (SCS) they have the highest level of certified recycled content among all fiberglass insulation producers in the United States at a minimum of 50 percent.
Owens Corning
Think about how warm and cozy that wool sweater keeps you in the middle of winter. Now imagine how comfortable you would be if your home had a layer of wool to protect it. With sheep wool insulation - a safe and green choice - it can.
What is Sheep Wool Insulation?
You mean besides being wool from a sheep? Check out this natural, completely renewable material from the Oregon Shepherd that is formed into both loose (blown-in) insulation and batten form. An organic treatment is added to increase the fire and pest resistance, but other than that sheep wool insulation is all-natural.
