Weatherization

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Weatherization means making your home more energy-efficient, comfortable, and healthy to live in by increasing the airtightness of the building components that separate the indoors from the outdoors – this is known as the building envelope. Tightening the building envelope will help keep cool air in during the summer, warm air in during the winter, and keep out moisture, pollutants, and pests.

Weatherization can help any home! Whether you own or rent, there are affordable ways to better seal your home and make it more energy efficient.

Air Sealing

Air Sealing_stock image Air leakage happens when outside air enters the conditioned air space inside the home. Reducing this leakage can cut heating/cooling costs, increase home comfort by reducing drafts, and improve indoor air quality by helping to keep pollutants like wildfire smoke out. Caulking and weatherstripping are simple, effective, and low-cost options for air sealing.

Caulk is generally used for cracks and openings between stationary house components (around windows, doors, etc.).
Weatherstripping is used to seal components that move, such as doors and windows.

Consider the following areas for air sealing:

Around window and door frames (exterior and interior).
Around basement and attic entrances.
Within basements and attics.
Cracks and seams in the ceilings and walls.
Air ducts (make sure air is moving through them rather than leaking out).
Areas where plumbing, ducting, or electrical wiring comes through walls, floors, and ceilings.
Pay attention to drafts and identify where the drafts are coming from.

Insulation

Insulation keeps heat from escaping the home, in the summer it can also help keep the house cool.

Attics and basements are key areas to insulate in the home. Depending on your space and the existing insulation; there are options for different types of insulation and how to install it.

Insulation Types and How To’s

Other insulation improvements:

Add insulation sleeves around water heating pipes.
Wrap your water heater in an insulation blanket.
Use foam boards to insulate patio doors with windows during the winter.
If you are considering any remodel projects in your home, this can also be a great opportunity to upgrade insulation.

Windows & Doors

Improve your windows by repairing broken windows, adding weatherstripping, and replacing broken window locks.
Open window shades/blinds during the day to let heat from the sun in, close them at night to help keep the heat in.
Consider installing storm windows for the winter.
If you are in the market for new windows, consider efficiency in your selection. Look for EnergyStar© rated products.

Tips for Renters

Adding rugs to bare floors can help insulate your space.
Use draft guards to block the gap between your door and the outside (or colder spaces like hallways). You can even make these yourself!
Get thick window shades or thermal window blinds to help insulate windows.
Open window shades/blinds during the day to let heat from the sun in, close them at night to help keep the heat in.
Weatherstrip doors and windows.
Let your property owner or manager know about available rebates and incentives for weatherization products and services.

Why Weatherize?

Lower your utility bills. When your home keeps warm or cool air from escaping, heating and cooling systems don’t have to work as hard. This saves energy and money each month.

Make your home more comfortable. Weatherization helps keep temperatures even throughout your home, stops cold drafts, and keeps outdoor pollutants out.

Improve indoor air quality and safety. Sealing your home helps block out things like wildfire smoke, dust, and other pollutants, making the air inside cleaner and healthier.

Be better prepared for extreme weather. Weatherization helps your home stay warm during freezing temperatures and cool during hot summer days, giving you extra protection from the weather.

Thinking of electrifying? If you plan to install a heat pump or other electric systems, good insulation and sealing help them work more efficiently.

It’s important to learn about the measures you are taking and consider how they will impact other systems in your home such as HVAC system performance, ventilation, moisture control, etc.

Resources to Get Started

Home Weatherization Program
If you qualify for LIHEAP (Low Income Home Energy Assistance Program), you may also be eligible for an energy audit and home weatherization services through HRDC. Renters and homeowners can both qualify for LIHEAP. If you are unsure if you qualify or are interested in applying, visit HRDC’s website to learn more.

Montana Weatherization Training Center
The MSU Extension MT Weatherization Training Center (right here in Bozeman) offers courses to field technicians, business owners, and program managers across the state. Their website is full of helpful resources.

ENERGY.GOV
The Department of Energy Weatherize pages are full of information on weatherization and DIY projects.

DOE Energy Saver Tips on Saving Money and Energy in Your Home

Rebates, Tax Credits, and Financing

Learn about rebates, tax credits, and financing options for weatherization products like insulation, windows, etc.

City Of Bozeman

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