Thinking about starting a home remodeling project? Consider these energy efficient home upgrades!
As spring blooms in Oklahoma City, now is when most homeowners are gearing up to breathe new life into their properties. With Earth Day on the horizon, there’s no better time to consider energy-efficient upgrades that not only enhance curb appeal but also reduce environmental impact. Many home exterior projects can also help homeowners save on utility bills which means going green can help save some green as well!
At Triple Diamond Construction, we’re passionate about helping homeowners make informed decisions about their homes. To help, we’ve researched the best energy-efficient upgrades and analyzed their return on investment (ROI) so homeowners can get the biggest bang for their buck.
#1 Energy Efficient Home Upgrades – Roofing
Upgrade your roof to more energy-efficient materials such as metal roofing or cool roofs. Metal roofs reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption and lowering cooling costs. Cool roofs are designed with reflective materials to minimize heat transfer into the home.
ROI: Metal roofing offers an ROI of around 85%, while cool roofs can provide an ROI of up to 70%. Both options contribute to energy savings and can last significantly longer than traditional asphalt shingles. Metal roofs offer one other advantage: superior hail resistance. In OKC, that could mean less roof replacements and more savings from your insurance company!
Considerations: Ensure proper insulation and ventilation to maximize energy efficiency. Choose light-colored roofing materials to further enhance reflectivity and curb appeal.
#2 – Upgrade Home Siding
Your home’s exterior makes up a HUGE portion of its curb appeal. Outdated or worn out siding can lower home value and lead to rising energy costs. If you’re thinking about energy efficient home upgrades, opt for insulated vinyl siding or fiber cement siding to improve energy efficiency. Insulated siding provides an additional layer of insulation, reducing heat transfer and improving thermal performance. Fiber cement siding is durable, low-maintenance, and offers excellent insulation properties.
ROI: Insulated vinyl siding can yield an ROI of approximately 75%, while fiber cement siding offers an ROI of around 80%. Both options enhance energy efficiency and add lasting value to your home.
Considerations: Select siding with a high R-value for optimal insulation. Consider the architectural style and color palette of your home to choose siding that complements its aesthetic appeal.
#3 – Install Energy Efficient Home Windows
Upgrade to energy-efficient home windows with double or triple-pane glass, low-emissivity coatings, and insulated frames. These features minimize heat transfer, reduce drafts, and improve indoor comfort year-round.
ROI: Replacement home windows offer one of the highest ROI’s of any home renovation project. Energy-efficient windows typically offer an ROI of 80% or more. Beyond energy savings, new windows enhance natural light, outdoor views, and curb appeal.
Considerations: Choose windows with ENERGY STAR® certification for proven energy performance. Consider window placement and orientation to maximize natural ventilation and daylighting opportunities.
#4 – Seamless Gutters + Rain Barrels
Install seamless aluminum gutters with leaf guards and rain barrels. Not only will this improve water management and prevent clogs, you can save water runoff to irrigate your lawn and garden. Plus, properly functioning gutters protect your home’s foundation, siding, and landscaping from water damage and erosion!
ROI: While the ROI of gutter replacement may vary, the long-term benefits of improved water management and reduced maintenance costs make it a worthwhile investment.
Considerations: Ensure proper slope and downspout placement for efficient water drainage. Regular gutter maintenance is essential to preserve performance and curb appeal.
Key Takeaways About Best Energy Efficient Home Upgrades
Investing in energy-efficient upgrades for your home’s exterior not only enhances curb appeal but also promotes sustainability and cost savings in the long run. From roofing to siding, windows, and gutters, there are numerous options available to improve energy efficiency and elevate the aesthetic appeal of your home.
At Triple Diamond Construction, we’re committed to helping homeowners make informed decisions and achieve their home improvement goals. Contact us today to explore energy-efficient solutions tailored to your needs and budget. Give our team a call at 405-895-9972 to schedule a free home assessment today!
