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Energy Tips - Insulate & Caulk
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To make sure caulking sticks well, clean the surface area thoroughly first and allow it to dry before you begin.
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Caulking should be used for its intended purpose only. For example, an exterior sealant can be a health hazard if used indoors.
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Do not caulk an area where the temperature is below 5°C (40°F), as the compound will become stiff and difficult to work with.
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Before you insulate, make sure your pipes do not have any leaks. Wet insulation is entirely useless.
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R-value is a measure of how well insulation resists heat transfer, meaning how much heat is let out of or into the home. Generally a higher R-value means better insulation, but since the rating is determined in controlled conditions, it may be lower in real-life applications, especially if insulation is installed incorrectly (air pockets are present or it is compressed). The R-value you’ll need depends on where insulation is being installed in the home. A professional can give you exact recommendations.
Insulation with a high R-value is a good choice for padding your walls, but other factors like your health and product life cycle matter too. There are many healthy insulation alternatives on the market.
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