An easy project for homeowners to take on themselves is installing insulation in the attic, and the benefits are noticeable immediately.

• First step to insulating your attic is to seal up joints and cracks with insulation foam; doing this can save you up to 20% a year on heating and cooling costs.
• Local building codes can help you choose the right R-value for your climate. R-value is the ability of the insulation to slow the transfer of heat. The higher the R-value, the better the material’s ability to resist the flow of heat through it.
• If your attic has some insulation already, install insulation that does not have a moisture barrier. Start by cutting insulation and installing it in areas that have small access, after that, you can continue in open areas by rolling out the insulation.
• Lay new insulation perpendicular to any existing insulation, right over the rafters. Be sure to lay insulation edges tightly next to each other to maximize the efficiency.