- Exterior Insulation
According to construction specialists, insulating the spaces between the studs is not the most effective method to construct a home. Instead, they suggest adding insulation to the outside. Consultants compare it to providing insulation between the ribs rather than wearing a jacket. Exterior insulation reinforces the building envelope, prevents thermal bridging, and aids in decreasing air leakage. Although outside insulation is not suitable for every property or environment, there are circumstances in which it is optimal.
- Consider the use of mechanical ventilation
As houses become more airtight, adverse impacts such as water damage and mold development increase; utilizing a mechanical ventilation system improves interior air quality by bringing in fresh air when and where homeowners choose.
- Mount a rainscreen
If you are constructing in a rainy region, it is prudent to create a water-managing wall. A rainscreen may aid in this regard. Putting the siding with an air gap between the house wrap helps the sheathing and the siding dry out faster. This arrangement is more advantageous in wetter areas than in drier ones. Also, assure that you look for the best rain gutter installations for your house. Consider having an aluminum gutter installation that is durable can withstand extreme weather conditions, and will endure without maintenance or repair for years.
- Enhance your air sealing
According to the Energy Department, decreasing air leakage is a cost-effective strategy for households to save heating and cooling expenses, enhance durability, and boost comfort. Comprehensive air sealing at penetrations, sill plates, attics, and a number of other crucial points will go a long way toward creating a more pleasing interior.
- Think about a heat pump water heater
Traditional tank water heaters are always running, even when no one is using water. According to the Energy Department, a heat pump water heater uses energy to transport heat from one location to another rather than creating heat directly. The machine utilizes ambient air to heat water and reverts to the tank when demand is high. Typically, they are two to three times more energy-efficient than standard water heaters.
- Set up a floor heating system
Ceramic tile and stone flooring is popular in bathrooms, but they might be difficult to walk on during the winter. A radiant floor heating system is an excellent concept. The homeowners will never see it, but they will appreciate it much.
- Put the toilet tank into the wall
In order to preserve space in a condo or multifamily bathroom, a wall-hung toilet with an in-wall tank is an excellent choice. It enables seat positioning at the desired height and requires less space than a standard toilet.
- Mount the vanity to the wall
In recent years, wall-mounted vanities have gained favor, maybe due to the popularity of modern design. Wall-mounted units are stylish, allow designers to place them at a variety of heights, and make the bathroom seem open and airy. Units generally restrict storage space; therefore, designers must account for this drawback.
- Utilize a counter-depth fridge
It may seem little, but a refrigerator that extends over the countertop is ugly. Homeowners who lack the funds for a built-in unit are often forced to live with a freestanding unit. But there are alternatives; manufacturers now make 24- to 30-inch standalone kitchen appliances that may contribute to an upscale appearance. Reduced capacity is a disadvantage, yet the units are ideal for the correct project.
- Consider casement windows
Several architects choose casement windows. In contrast to double-hung windows, perhaps the most prevalent variety, casement windows are among the most energy-efficient because they create a tight seal when closed. The majority of casement windows are equipped with hook-shaped locks that provide an additional degree of protection. In addition, the single sash gives residents enhanced vistas.
Exterior Home Solutions provides a variety of home renovation services in the Richmond, VA region, such as James Hardie Siding, Vinyl Siding, GAF Shingles, Roofing, Simonton Windows, and Gutters. Contact us for a free estimate on your home improvement project.