I know in South Florida we don’t have to worry too much about the winter’s chill, but we can still lose a lot of air conditioning through cracks around windows and doors.
Caulk Now, Before Winter's Chill
Simple caulking and weatherstripping is a home improvement that pays off.
By Brian Clark Howard
Simple leaks can sap home energy efficiency by 5% to 30% a year, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. That means it pays to seal up gaps with caulking and weatherstripping.
Take a close look at places where two different building materials meet, such as corners, around chimneys, where pipes or wires exit and along the foundation. Use the incense test: carefully (avoiding drapes and other flammables) move a lit stick along walls; where the smoke wavers, you have air sneaking in. And heating or cooling sneaking out.
In another method, have someone on the outside blow a hair dryer around each window while you hold a lighted candle inside. If the candle flickers or goes out, you need to caulk or weather strip around the frame.
Low-income households can qualify for an average of $6,500 worth of weatherization improvements to their homes through government programs administered by each state. Find out about your state's program by contacting local energy agencies.
Read more: http://www.thedailygreen.com/going-green/tips/caulking-weatherstripping-tip-0911#ixzz29N5OUMgT
Gene Dempsey, City Forester
Environmental Services
Office - (954) 828-5785 Fax - (954) 828-4745
Think before you print!
