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In the present scenario when energy costs are rising and there is much concern for the environment, we need to build energy efficient homes. They are environment friendly and far less expensive because you can save money in heating and cooling costs. If you follow a few guidelines in building and landscaping, you can have an energy efficient home. Tight construction. This type of construction actually helps improve energy efficiency by tightening up the air penetrations through the home's exterior. Most of the gaps are caused during framing. Tighter construction complete with air sealing can create an envelope that improves air quality and keeps outside air from affecting the inside of the house, preventing cooling in the winter and heating in the summer. Improved insulation. Increased insulation inhibits heat transfer through the home. Carefully installed insulation that is free of crimping, gaps, and compression can help keep warm air in during winter months and cool air in during the summer. When you keep the house from losing desired temperature, the heater or air conditioner is needed much less, and that saves you money in energy costs. Maximum amount of heat exchange between home interiors and exteriors is through windows. To avoid heat loss or gain through windows you can get high performance windows installed. Though they may sound like a high cost right now they surely are a wise investment considering the fact that they save a lot on energy costs in the long run. Double glazing and special coatings act as glass insulators. These improved materials make a true high performance, energy efficient window. They do not affect the visibility in any way; just inhibit unwanted heat transfer through the window. In addition to using high performance windows, make sure that the window framing is tight and that materials with low conduction are used. These materials include vinyl, fiberglass, and wood. Metal is a good heat conductor, and therefore not a good choice as a window frame. Energy efficient equipment. Choose specially designed and energy efficient equipment to heat and cool your home. Many heating and cooling stores offer equipment that is efficient so that you can lower your bills by using equipment that uses less energy. Combined with carefully building techniques, you can save a great deal of money while promoting your comfort Once you have taken care of the interiors, you need to give a thought to landscaping as well. After all, building an energy efficient home is not just about the house. Landscaping features like thoughtfully placed trees can also contribute to the efficiency of a home. They provide shade over the home during the summer and can act as windbreaks during the winter. This can help your home maintain better energy efficiency. Thanks to modern technology, you can have a home that is much more energy efficient. Such homes are not only more comfortable but environment friendly too. And, you can save a lot of money. These measures of building and landscaping also help improve air quality in the home by reducing unwanted drafts.
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About the author: Ricky Domalewska is the chief writer at Fair Building, it's one of the webs most up to date Building sites, why not sign up for the free Building newsletter. If you want to read more Building articles go to: www.fairbuilding.com/articles Get your own completely unique content version of this article.
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