Buildings account for approximately 48 percent of greenhouse gas emissions in the U.S. (most of which is due to heating and cooling), according to the Environmental and Energy Institute. The U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) recently launched a new internet feature that provides tips to consumers on how to make Every Day Earth Day by making smart energy choices to save money while protecting the environment. The interactive web page shows consumers steps to use less energy with household electronics, lighting, and appliances to save on monthly bills and how to avoid wasting energy by improving the energy efficiency of their homes.

Saving energy and improving the environment by taking simple steps around your home such as using solar power, energy efficient appliances and efficient water heaters are a few of the recommendations that would make a home more energy efficient and reduce green house gas emissions. In particular, the DOE has placed significant importance on insulating and air-sealing the attic for enhanced heating and cooling performance.

According to the DOE, space heating and cooling accounts for more than 50% of the energy used in a typical American home. Much of that conditioned air escapes through poorly sealed, under-insulated attics.
There are two key components to consider when measuring the effectiveness of insulation:

R-Value and Air Permeance

An insulation material that shrinks or doesn't completely fill the entire cavity results in gaps, which permit air movement within the wall cavity. If the insulation fails to air-seal, the effective R-Value of the insulation can be reduced by as much as 50% from the maximum R-Value rated on a product. 

Air movement not only affects energy efficiency but can lead to moisture problems. Condensation inside walls, ceilings, floors and attics can occur when warm, moist air is allowed to pass through or around insulation and contacts a cold surface. Condensation could further lead to mold growth.

Icynene^® Insulation and Air Barrier System

Icynene^® is proven to minimize airflow through the building envelope to deliver up to 50 percent savings in energy bills. It fills every crevice and acts as an air barrier to restrict air leakage (the source of up to 99% of moisture movement in a structure) and minimize the conditions that can lead to mildew and mold growth. High performance Icynene^® insulation does not off-gas or settle over time, maintaining a constant R-value.

Homeowners can reduce their carbon footprint by opting for an Icynene^®-insulated home. Icynene^® contributes to reduced greenhouse gas emissions because it helps lower a building's energy consumption and the heating and cooling load on the mechanical ventilation system.
 
Adding insulation to the attic¹ is relatively easy and very cost effective and it will make your home more comfortable year-round. Let an Icynene Licensed Dealer assist you with your construction/ renovation project's insulation requirements. Visit Icynene.com and enter your zip code in the Icynene Dealer Locator to locate your nearest Icynene Licensed Dealer.