|
Efficiency Upgrades
Most existing homes suffer from a variety of performance-related
problems that affect energy efficiency, indoor air quality,
comfort, safety, durability, and maintenance requirements.
This applies to both older and new homes. The cause is common
construction practices that do not account for unplanned air,
heat, and moisture flows that lie at the root of virtually
all performance defects.
Our work begins with a comprehensive evaluation of existing conditions.
The written evaluation includes specific recommendations for
resolving problems and enhancing performance. We use two classifications
for these recommendations:
- Work that is either essential (for
safety or code reasons) and is low cost.
- Work that we recommend for optimum performance but that
is not essential, is relatively expensive, or where the
cost savings
would be returned over a period longer than five years.
The work that BPC recommends typically involves
repairs or improvements to the following areas of your home:
- Air leakage through the exterior envelope
- Inadequate and poorly installed insulation
- Poorly installed and oversized heating, cooling and hot water
systems
- Moisture issues involving the basement, outside walls, and the
attic
- Windows that allow air leakage and excessive heat loss
- Inadequate or non-existent ventilation (fresh air) for the occupants
- Air pressure differences that compromise combustion safety
This work is known as weatherization and has become increasingly
beneficial as modern expectations
for home performance have increased. Dramatic performance
improvement is often achieved
at modest cost.
|
