How do I know if…

My House Building Envelope is adequate and in need of attention

 Windows: If your windows frames or sills are rotting, your windows need to be replaced. I have used something as simple as a screwdriver to tap the frame to test the softness of the wood. If the tip of the screwdriver pushed into the wood easily it’s a sign of decay and rot in the window. When you replace rotted windows, ask if new windows are eligible for the energy tax credit. NOT all windows are eligible.

Roof System and Shingles: If your shingles are blistered, curled or split, it’s time to replace your roof. Other indicators are: loose or missing shingles throughout the roof; exposed/rusted nails; and excess granules from shingles in your gutters. The excessive amount shingle granules in the gutters, means the shingle coating is wearing away.

Attic Insulation: The attic is the most neglected area of the home. It’s for storage and that’s it. Right? Wrong!   The attic needs proper insulation and ventilation.  This ensures proper HVAC control and minimal ice damming.   So head up and measure the depth of the blown-in insulation and see if there are baffles in the overhangs.  All homes need to have a minimum of 16” to 18″ of blown insulation, which would equal an insulation rating of a R – 38. Most attics we see only have about half of that.   Just think of all of the heating and cooling escaping the home.

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Home and Garden Show

Don’t  Forget the Home and Garden Show in March!

We hope you found our newsletter helpful.  If you have any questions, please email us, we will be happy to assist and respond.

Thanks!

Craig Antonelli