I am consistently working on my lake new home and looking for ways to improve aesthetics, functionality, comfort and efficiency.
I have a really big lake new home which means that it’s fancy to heat and cool.
Many of my projects have focused on tightening up the thermal envelope to lessen energy waste. Because new windows are super fancy, it took myself and others a while to update all of the many windows. I spent more to install low E, thermal pane, Energy Star rated windows. They not only look really nice and are easier to clean, however they eliminate drafts and prevent heated and cooled air from escaping. I spent a absolutely horrible weekend crawling around our hot attic, removing ancient insulation that had been compromised by moisture and rodents. It was a horrible, dirty and hot job. I then installed new, using rolls of fiberglass insulation with an R-23 value. Since the attic is designed to serve as a barrier between the outdoor conditions and the residing space, it’s substantial to keep this part consistently sealed and insulated. Since replacing the insulation, I’ve noticed a definite difference in the comfort level of the home. I’ve also caulked and weatherstripped around windows and exterior doors. I installed ceiling fans in most of the rooms. I had fun shopping for ceiling fans because there are so many sizes and styles available. They add to the aesthetics of the room while also elevating comfort levels. During the winter, I run the fans clockwise on low speed to push the heated air back down toward the floor, lessening demands on the gas furnace. In the summer, I reverse the rotation of the blades to encourage the heat upward and create a cooling effect.