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Because of the favorable local weather conditions, historically little emphasis
has been placed on having lots of insulation or
ensuring weatherization of doors and windows. But
from a comfort standpoint, these two categories are
very important, and in terms of air conditioning a
home on the coast, they are critical. |
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Insulation |
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By insulating walls and ceilings (even floors), the
efficiency and cost-effectiveness of space
conditioning is greatly improved and the ability to
control indoor temperatures and humidity enhanced.
Insulation can be installed as “batts”, rolls of
fiberglass backed with paper or foil that ease
installation in attics or between walls in new
construction. “Blown-in” insulation (usually
cellulose) can be added to existing attic insulation
or used to fill wall cavities with only minimal
disturbance to wall surfaces. (when selecting the
type to use, consider too the sustainability of the
product: Does it come from a renewable source (e.g.,
old newspapers can be a source for the blown-in
variety)? And can it be moved and used again, as
might occur in a home undergoing renovations? |
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Weatherization |
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Weatherization usually involves the detection and
remediation of sources of air infiltration into a
home. Cracks around window frames and doors are a
popular site for placement of caulking and/or
weather stripping. By reducing leaks to the outside,
air conditioning and space heating requirements are
reduced. The cost for such materials is usually
minimal compared to the benefits in comfort and
reduced utility costs afforded by their
installation. |
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Windows and Doors |
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If considering replacement of doors or windows, be
sure to learn about the differences in types of
framing and glass. Understand the importance of
thermal-break framing in aluminum window frames, and
understand U-value differences and shading
coefficients of the many varieties of glass.
Consider dual pane windows, which help not only with
energy but with reducing sound infiltration, so
important in an urban environment. Refer to the
Santa Monica Green Building Guidelines
website,
and familiarize yourself with EnergyStar labeling
and NFRC ratings (see website below). The added, or
incremental, cost of the better door or window is
almost always justified by the energy savings
achieved.
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For more information,
contact: |
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This page was last modified on
08/06/2008
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