Uninsulated walls are surprisingly common, especially in older houses. They can cause serious comfort and energy efficiency issues, but many people are under the impression that insulating existing walls is a major hassle, so these issues persist. The good news is that this isn’t always the case. You can absolutely add insulation to existing walls, … Read more
Vermiculite insulation is a hazardous type of insulation found in many older homes throughout the United States. It normally contains asbestos, which is proven to be a dangerous, Group 1 carcinogen that harms humans. If your home was constructed between the 1940s and 1990s, there’s a good chance you have vermiculite in your attic. Carefully … Read more
Many of Massachusetts’ older homes are lacking insulation. As a result, they have uncomfortable and inconsistent indoor temperatures, moisture and mold problems, and expensive energy bills. Luckily, insulation can be easily retrofitted to most homes, helping families overcome these challenges. But how do you know if you need insulation, what types should you install, and … Read more
Massachusetts has the third-oldest housing stock in the United States, with over 50% of homes built before 1960. This older construction means that many families suffer from inconsistent temperatures across the house, specifically with a hot upstairs and cold downstairs. If you constantly find yourself asking, “Why is my upstairs so hot even with AC?” … Read more
Most people install insulation to improve comfort in their home. But did you know that you can also use insulation for soundproofing? If you live in a busy neighborhood, insulation is one of the best ways to make your home quieter and more relaxing. How does insulation work for sound dampening, and where should you … Read more
If you live in an older home, you might have noticed your bathroom is on the smaller side. Small bathrooms can be more challenging to remodel. Space is limited, so it’s not always possible to install bigger and bolder fixtures like a double vanity. Homeowners who are thinking of investing in a renovation normally have … Read more
Many people only think about their home’s poor insulation and air gaps in the winter. As temperatures get colder, they get concerned about heat loss, high energy bills, and cold drafts. While these are all important, the worry shouldn’t go away in the summer. An uninsulated and poorly sealed home will allow warm, humid air … Read more
Window AC units can be convenient, but they also have a lot of downsides. They use a lot of electricity, are awkward to install, and have limited cooling power. If you’ve been thinking about upgrading, there are many other options you can consider. Ductless heat pumps (also called mini splits) are a great alternative to … Read more
If your energy costs are out of control, upgrading your attic insulation can help. Attic insulation traps heat inside your home during the winter and blocks it out during the summer. This makes it easier for your heating and cooling systems to keep your home comfortable, so you can run them less frequently and save … Read more
We all tend to use more electricity in the summer to run our air conditioners and keep our homes cool. Thankfully, there are plenty of ways you can lower your energy costs without sacrificing comfort. To help you save both energy and money this summer, we’ve gathered some of the best summer energy efficiency tips … Read more
People who use wheelchairs often face challenges in their home’s bathroom because standard fixtures don’t accommodate their mobility needs. Features like high tub sidewalls, raised shower bases, and tall sinks may be daily inconveniences, but they also pose a safety hazard. If you’re tired of dealing with these risks and challenges, an accessible bathroom remodel … Read more
If your home is losing a lot of energy, it could be flying right out the windows! According to the US Department of Energy, heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25-30% of residential heating and cooling energy use. Installing energy efficient windows can help reduce energy loss in your home, leading … Read more
