The Charleston, South Carolina area is a great place to live or have a vacation home. The weather is great, the beaches are fantastic, golf courses are abundant, there are many historical sites, the architecture is unbelievable, the dining is unbeatable, and the people are the friendliest in the country. It is because of these reasons that I believe Charleston SC Real Estate is truly unique. I look forward to helping you with any of your real estate needs in Charleston, Berkeley, or Dorchester counties. Today’s article is titled:
How Green is Your Attic?
According to the Department of energy 44% of an average household’s energy dollars is for heating and air conditioning. For a relatively modest investment in insulation materials and labor, a consumer can lower those costs on an ongoing basis and generate a rapid payback.
Though insulating a home is green in itself, some alternatives are greener than others. Some use recycled materials while others use new technology, while others use older products made in a more earth friendly way.
5 Green Insulation Options
1. Cotton insulation is made from recycled scrap generated during denim manufacturing. It is flame resistant and is about twice as costly as fiberglass with about the same R-factor.
2. Mineral wool insulation is made from steel slag or natural rock that is manufactured into a flame resistant fiber. It contains over 75% recycled materials. It is moisture resistant and holds its R-value when wet. It can be used in below grade applications.
3. Fiberglass made from abundant silica and has been made greener through the inclusion of post consumer and post industrial recycled materials.
4. Cellulose is today’s green loose fill insulation of choice. It is composed of roughly 75% recycled shredded newsprint treated to be flame resistant. Cellulose is not advisable to use in areas prone to moisture.
5. Polyiso is considered the most environmentally friendly spray foam and rigid foam board. It has a higher R-value than batt, and loose fill insulation and can be used anywhere in a home except below grade.
With all the above insulation alternatives above , proper installation is the key to tightening a home. Poorly installed insulation that leaves gaps or is not well sited to the moisture levels can compromise the R-value of the insulation. Some installations may qualify for a tax credit.
As always, your thoughts, questions, or comments are greatly appreciated. Let me know if I can help with any of your Charleston SC real estate needs or questions.
To look for Charleston SC Real Estate homes anywhere in the tri-county area go to my website at http://www.carolinajoe.com/mls/
View my entire inventory of VisualTours of Charleston SC Real Estate homes at http://www.visualtour.com/inventory.asp?U=182210
Sincerely,
"Carolina Joe" Idleman
http://www.carolinajoe.com
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