Summer can be harsh and uncomfortable if your home is not prepared for it. Fortunately, there are things that you can do to make your home more comfortable for the season. In this blog, residential roofing contractor Howard Roofing & Home Improvements shares some ways to summer-proof your home.
- Fix Insulation Problems — Every home has an insulated enclosure called the energy envelope. It consists of the exterior walls, the attic and fenestrations such as windows and entry doors. The objective is to prevent heat from being conducted through the energy envelope and maintain consistent indoor temperatures. So if you notice drastic spikes in your energy bills during the summer and winter seasons, your home may have insulation problems that need to be fixed. In addition to being more comfortable, a well-insulated energy envelope can help you save on energy costs.
- Upgrade Your Windows — Windows are an important part of your home’s energy envelope. If your home still has windows with single-pane glass, your home may have “hot spots” when the sun is shining on it. Glass is a naturally-conductive material that allows heat to easily pass through, which can negatively affect your home’s energy envelope. Upgrading to ENERGY STAR®-certified replacement windows can help improve your home’s insulation and your summer comfort.
- Don’t Slip HVAC Maintenance — Just like your roofing system, your HVAC requires regular inspections and maintenance. If you already have a maintenance agreement with an HVAC contractor, do your best to stick to the schedule. Regular maintenance helps keep your HVAC system in good shape and is much less likely to fail on you in the middle of a hot day.
- Choose a Properly-Sized HVAC System — If you are planning to replace your air conditioner, make sure it’s properly sized for your home. Choose one that’s too small and it will be on maximum all the time just to meet minimum cooling requirements. Choose an air conditioner that’s too large and it will be turning off and back on too often, which will consume more energy, and won’t properly dehumidify your home.
Howard Roofing & Home Improvements is your leading provider of residential and commercial roofing services. Give us a call at (636) 296-1057 or fill out our contact form. We serve customers in St. Louis, MO, and the surrounding areas.