If you are participating in the AHFC home energy rebate program, make sure that when you have your post audit done that you shut all of the doors and windows, and put everything back together at least as good as it was. Otherwise, you might get to the post audit and have more leakage than [...]
Insulation baffles are a very important part of installing attic insulation. If baffles are not properly installed, the insulation will block air flow at the eaves of the roof. This can result in excess moisture and heat in the attic, causing mold and mildew problems, ice dams, and wood rot.
It’s amazing how often we see bathroom and kitchen vents that are either purposely vented into the attic or are disconnected. Hot, moist air from the building is forced intot he attic cavity. The result is mold, wood rot, ice dams, and condensation problems. It is a good idea to peak into your attic to make [...]
Exposed beams, such as the one pictured here, are a very common source of condensation problems. Often times, exposed beams have water streaks running down the side. The home owner will generally call a roofing contractor because it seems as though the roof is leaking. The typical solution offered is a $10,000-$30,000 hot roof-to-cold roof [...]
Continue reading about Exposed Beams and Condensation Problems
If you are hiring an insulation contractor in anchorage to take care of your AHFC home energy audit upgrades make sure that they undertand the basics of building science.
You will generally lose heat from your home in one of two ways. Either you will lose heat by heat transfering through a surface, or by hot air [...]
Are you planning on air sealing your home? Make sure that your contactor has the right background and equipment to make sure that he is leaving your home safe and functioning properly. At a minimum, they should have taken courses in building science, combustion safety, and cold climate building. In addition, they should have a [...]
In a heated structure, the primary air barrier and the insulation should be aligned. With spray foam, this happens automatically. Air does not pass readily through it. And, as it’s applied, it seals off any cracks and crevices that air could move through. Fiberglass, on the other hand, allows air to pass through fairly efficiently. Heat is lost, [...]
Have you received your report back from your energy rater? If so, you are likely somewhat mystified about what to do next. How do I know which items to choose? Which items will give me the most “bang for my buck?” Should I use the insulation values that the paper states or should I go [...]
Continue reading about Tips For Choosing A Contractor for AHFC Rebate Upgrades