For many homeowners, the unfinished parts of their home are the places they don’t think about—until they become a problem. But beyond sudden issues like a squirrel nesting in the attic or moisture forming on the foundation’s stonework, your home’s unfinished spaces may be costing you money through higher utility bills. Learn about your options for energy-efficiency improvements for unfinished attics and basements, then take action.
Energy Efficiency Improvements for Unfinished Attics
The most common out-of-sight, out-of-mind issue for homeowners is the unfinished attic. Small issues, such as insulation, air leaks, and ventilation, can become big issues, especially once storage, pests, and other factors come into play.
- Attic Insulation Issues: Unfinished attics are often under-insulated and may contain the wrong type of insulation or damaged insulation, making this a cost-effective energy-efficiency option. Learn more in our blog, Improving Attic Insulation in Your Home.
- Air Sealing & Weatherization: Cracks, gaps, and holes can let the air you don’t want in and leak out the air you do. Attic windows may also need weatherization. Learn more about air sealing in our blog, What is Home Air Sealing and Do I Need It for My House?
- Attic Ventilation Issues: Improperly ventilated attics can cause a host of issues, from overheating to moisture buildup that causes mold and mildew. Improving ventilation can both solve these problems and provide solutions, including whole home ventilation.
Dealing with your attic’s air sealing and insulation problems is one of the three most cost-effective energy efficiency solutions.
Energy Efficiency Improvements for Unfinished Basements
According to a report for the US Department of Energy, homes can lose up to one-third of their heat through unfinished basements. Picking the right solutions is often dependent on what you’re using the space for, so consult an expert before picking one or more of the following solutions:
- Basement Insulation: Options for basement insulation can include the ceiling (floor of the main level), rim joists, slab edges, and foundation walls.
- Basement Windows: If your basement includes windows, these need to be well sealed and insulated, especially if they sit at or below ground level.
- Basement Air Sealing: Just like with attics and other parts of your home, cracks, gaps, and holes can let in unconditioned air (and worse, see below).
Foundation Issues & Basement Water Intrusion
A large part of a basement is the home’s foundation, and issues with it can affect not only energy efficiency but also create major problems. Water leaking through cracks in the foundation—known as water intrusion—requires foundation waterproofing to prevent not only basement flooding, but also the temperature loss from a compromised foundation. This is especially true for older homes with stone foundations.
Home Performance Improvements for Crawlspaces
In places prone to flooding or with high water tables—and also with more recent constructions—you may have a crawl space below your home instead of a basement. Because these spaces are narrow and unfinished, inspection and maintenance are often neglected. To improve energy efficiency, you may need additional insulation, weatherization, and air sealing.
Attic & Basement Home Performance Experts in St. Louis
Attic and basement energy efficiency is just two of the ways Greenmark Home Performance can improve your home performance. What sets us apart is looking beyond immediate home performance issues, starting with comprehensive home evaluations. We also provide air quality, ventilation, and remodeling services as part of our whole home approach. Call us at 314-845-9144 or schedule an appointment online to get started today!
