Ask Sir Walter: Plan Energy Efficiency From the Ground Up

Q: With the present rise in energy costs, I am more interested than ever in learning how I can have an energy-efficient home. What would you recommend? - A Cedar Home Enthusiast

A: Dear Cedar Home Enthusiast:
Throughout the U.S. and Canada, people are feeling the bite of rising energy costs. Why, in some climates, energy bills come close to exceeding monthly mortgage payments. Not to mention legitimate fears about dwindling energy supplies and the environmental implications of excessive energy use.

By planning wisely today, you can save upwards of 50% in your heating and cooling bills. Did you know that:

• Cedar has natural insulating properties. With five times the R-value of brick, millions of tiny air-filled cells in every cedar plank resist heat loss and increase energy-efficiency.
• Siting, a double door entry vestibule and south-facing windows can all enhance energy-efficiency.
• Rigid foam insulation can pose a health hazard. The quick and easy fix used by many companies contains formaldehyde. Lindal homes have always used loose fiberglass insulation batts.
• It's critical that insulation, windows, weather stripping and caulking are properly installed. Even small crevices can result in substantial heat losses.
• A passive solar home is often price comparable. Building a passive solar home can be comparable in price to a similar, well-insulated home. And the energy-efficiency paybacks over time are enormous.

At Lindal we offer a large menu of energy-saving options. You want to make sure you're planning for adequate insulation, but not overdoing it for your local climate. For more information on which choices are right for you, consult with your Lindal dealer. You might also want to look at Sunset Magazines "Homeowner's Guide to Solar Heating," Edward Mazria's "The Passive Solar Energy Book" or "The Solar Home Book" by Bruce Anderson and Michael Riordan.

Best regards,
Sir Walter Lindal

If you have further energy-efficiency or other home building questions, click here to get a personal response from Sir Walter.