When Sealing Your Home Makes Money Sense PLUMBING aXaN | RECESSED ren He aa NaCR gate -|_ gnuee Ue ty With rising energy costs, a simple preventative measure such as sealing only makes sense. (NAPSA)—There’s no place like home whenit comes to reducing energy costs. As crude oil and natural gas prices rise, many homeowners look for ways to reduce energy costs at home. One simple step— sealing—can have a huge impact on an energy bill. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, air leakage through tiny holes and cracks accounts for 25 to 40 percent of the energy used for heating and cooling a typical home. By sealing doors and windows, the average family that spends $2,500 a year on energy costs could save $500 peryear. Although many homeowners know that sealing can easily be a do-it-yourself job, surprisingly few homeowners actually undertake such projects. Here’s what they have to do to save $500: The most beneficial sealing project is windows. For effective sealing, place weather stripping around windows and apply caulk around the windows, both inside and out, where needed. Ill-fitting doors are another source of leaks and should also be sealed. Anywhere you can see light, air can comein. * You may be surprised to learn that the biggest air leaks in a homecan be hiddenin an attic or basement. The sum of these small openings can equal as much airflow as an open window. Be sure to seal both holes and small cracks. Pay particular attention to areas around joints, vents and chimneys. Many experts prefer silicone caulk, such as GE Silicone II, because it is the best seal against water and the elements. Silicone doesn’t shrink or crack, and moves as the home expands and contracts with the temperature. For less than $20, the cost. of enough silicone to seal the average size home, you could save up to $500 a year on heating costs. Now there is even a paintable silicone on the market, GE’s Silicone II XST, combining the superior performance of a silicone and the paintability of an acrylic. For more information on the best sealant to use, you can visit www.gesealants.com or call 866- ASK-GESA.
