Insulate the attic

It's usually very easy to add insulation in the attic.
One of the main reasons to add a lot of insulation in the attic is because access here is generally open, and a thick layer of insulation can be blown in at relatively low cost. Standard payback calculations can be misleading because they don't take the unpredictability of energy costs into account. Rising energy prices demand that builders make the most of every energy improvement possible. The attic also should be air sealed.

Green Points

LEED for HomesLeadership in Energy and Environmental Design. LEED for Homes is the residential green building program from the United States Green Building Council (USGBC). While this program is primarily designed for and applicable to new home projects, major gut rehabs can qualify. : Meeting Energy StarLabeling system sponsored by the Environmental Protection Agency and the US Department of Energy for labeling the most energy-efficient products on the market; applies to a wide range of products, from computers and office equipment to refrigerators and air conditioners. requirements is a prerequisite; 2 points for installing enhanced insulation that exceeds the International Energy Conservation Code by at least 5% (EA 2).
NGBSNational Green Building Standard Based on the NAHB Model Green Home Building Guidelines and passed through ANSI. This standard can be applied to both new homes, remodeling projects, and additions. /ICC-700: Up to 15 points for meeting various insulation installation guidelines (703, prescriptive path) plus additional points third-party verification and air sealing (703.2)

Learn more in the Green Building Encyclopedia

Attics

Learn more in the Green Product Guide

Insulation

Learn more in the Construction Detail Library

Air sealing at attic hatch

Further resources

Insulation

Recommended Levels of Insulation

Home Energy Solutions (Energy Trust)

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