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Energy Savings Options :: Efficient Attic Systems
Efficient Attic Systems:
Building Systems in the Attic that are Efficient
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Fold-down attic ladders offer easy access to valuable overhead storage space, but they also aren't the most efficient attic systems. Ladders are usually plagued by energy-wasting air leaks around openings.
Now, specialized insulating covers are available to fit over attic ladders to eliminate air infiltration. To learn more about insulating covers and other more efficient attic systems, keep reading.
Insulating Covers
Attic-ladder openings waste energy by allowing heated or cooled air to leak into the attic. These leaks also create a convective effect that draws cold outside air indoors through gaps around doors and windows. A study done by Cleveland's nonprofit Housing Resource Center showed that such leakage can increase heating costs by as much as 40 percent.
An insulating cover can stop airflow through the attic opening, provided that it makes complete contact with the attic floor. Install wood or plywood around the rough opening if your attic doesn't have a floor. The border should be wide enough to extend from the opening to the edge of the cover. Seal gaps between the border and the framing with caulk.
The Therma-Dome cover (center photo, below) is constructed of lap-jointed pieces of foam insulating board. (Photo omitted) A weatherstrip gasket runs along the bottom edge, and nylon straps (included) hold the cover tightly in place. To achieve a gap-free seal, assemble the cover in place so that its shape will conform to the attic floor.
Radiant Barrier
Radiant barriers will reduce your summer heat gain and decrease your winter heat loss. They're typically made of a thin sheet of highly-reflective material which is applied to another layer of cardboard, plywood or kraft backing. The reflective sides reflect heat back into the house while keeping summer heat out.
As part of any efficient attic systems, radiant barriers simply reduce heat transfer. Like insulation and in conjunction with insulation, they keep heat both in and out. Installing a radiant barrier can save you as much as 40% on your annual heating and cooling bills.
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Trane
Furnaces
Lennox
Furnaces
Lennox
Furnace
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Energy
Efficient
Space
Heaters
Garage
Door
Insulation
Garage
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Kits
Portable
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EnergySavingsOptions.com :: Efficient Attic Systems