Comparing and Contrasting Insulation for Existing Walls: Fiberglass, Cellulose, and Foam

preparing an attic for insulation

Fiberglass Batt Insulation When you think insulation, you probably think of fiberglass. Known for being fluffy, pink, (though it also comes in yellow, green, and white) and itchy, it’s been the main insulation used in homes for decades. It is a man-made, naturally sound-absorbent material and is typically the least expensive insulation option. And it might surprise you to learn

How Much Can Green Energy Applications Actually Save Homeowners?

House on Green Leaf Green Energy Applications

When it comes to green home building, homeowners have a lot of uncertainty. We’re all told about the benefits of green homeownership, but do they really pay off? Which home investments are worth the added price tag? Which should you invest in if you already own your home? If you don’t take advantage of green home solutions, are you spending

Controlling and Preventing Spring Mold Growth in Your Home

mold growth

Spring is the season of new growth. The grass is growing again, flowers a jetting out of the ground, and trees are budding. In Minnesota, this also means the last of the snow is melting (or still falling, depending on the day) and ice-covered lakes and rivers are exposed again. All this extra moisture has the opportunity to grow more

Six Tips to Improve Your Home’s Indoor Air Quality

Indoor Air Quality

The quality of the air in your home is determined by a few factors–mainly your home’s HVAC system. All indoor air has the opportunity to become polluted–especially this time of year when mold growth is rampant and allergens are on the move. You might notice low indoor air quality through strange smells, a heavier than normal feeling, or worst of

How does retrofitting save you money?

At the beginning of a new year, it’s time to look at your finances and see whenever you can slim down a few areas of your budget. Is your energy bill astronomical? Turns out, you’re not out of luck. You can easily solve your money troubles pertaining to your heating bill by simply retrofitting your home. Here’s exactly how taking

Hey homeowners, here’s how to gear up for Minneapolis’ new energy initiative

As a new decade is ushered in, Minneapolis continues to fight to decrease its carbon footprint. This year, the city is requiring homeowners to be transparent about their home’s energy efficiency. This new push will require more reporting for homeowners to compile a home energy report for potential buyers. This is just one of the several initiatives that Minneapolis has

Why your foundation might be the culprit of your low energy grade

Low energy grades are must-fix in your home. Low energy grades often lead to higher energy bills and overall, a home that is often too cold in the winter and too hot in the summer. The major culprits in low energy grade audits are the foundation and basement of your home. According to research conducted by the University of Minnesota,

Blower door testing: What is it and why it’s now required for new builds

Identifying where air leaks are inside your building is a bit of detective work. New on the insulation market scene is blower door testing, which has now become a mandatory test in Minnesota’s building code. Blower door testing has transformed energy audits on buildings, new and old, by pinpointing exact areas that are not airtight.   What is blower door