In neighborhoods and established communities throughout Wisconsin, older homes offer unique charm and character that new constructions simply can't replicate. However, these beloved properties often come with a significant downside: poor energy efficiency that leads to uncomfortable living spaces and unnecessarily high utility bills, especially during our extreme Wisconsin seasons.

At Dun-Rite Insulation, we've spent decades helping Wisconsin homeowners transform their drafty, inefficient houses into comfortable, energy-saving homes without sacrificing their historic character. Here's our practical guide to making meaningful energy improvements in your existing home.

Understanding the Challenge of Older Homes

Wisconsin's housing stock features many homes built before modern energy codes were established. Common issues include:

• Minimal or degraded insulation in walls, attics, and crawl spaces

• Air leakage around windows, doors, and through various penetrations

• Outdated heating and cooling systems

• Historic features that are difficult to modify without affecting character
  

The good news? Nearly every older home has significant room for improvement that can pay dividends in comfort and cost savings.

Start With a Home Energy Audit

Before making any improvements, we recommend scheduling a professional energy audit. This audit, also called assessment, identifies your home's specific inefficiencies and helps prioritize improvements for maximum impact. Many homeowners are surprised to learn that their biggest energy losses aren't coming from the areas they suspected.

A thorough assessment typically includes:

• Blower door testing to measure air leakage

• Infrared thermal imaging to detect insulation gaps

• Heating and cooling system efficiency testing

• Comprehensive recommendations prioritized by cost-effectiveness
  

High-Impact Improvements for Wisconsin's Climate

1. Attic Insulation and Air Sealing

The attic represents the single most important area for energy efficiency improvements in most older Wisconsin homes. Heat rises, making proper attic insulation crucial for winter comfort and lower heating bills.

For existing homes in our climate zone, we recommend:

• Sealing all penetrations before adding insulation

• Upgrading to R-60 insulation levels (current Wisconsin recommendation)

• Ensuring proper ventilation to prevent moisture problems

• Addressing potential ice dam issues with proper insulation at eaves
  

2. Wall Insulation for Existing Homes

Many older Wisconsin homes have hollow wall cavities or minimal insulation. Adding insulation to existing walls makes a dramatic difference in both winter and summer comfort.

Options include:

• Dense-packed cellulose insulation blown into wall cavities

• Foam injection for smaller cavities and hard-to-reach areas

• Strategic exterior insulation during residing projects
  

3. Basement and Crawl Space Solutions

These often-neglected areas are major sources of energy loss and comfort problems in Wisconsin homes.

Effective approaches include:

• Rim joist insulation and air sealing

• Foundation wall insulation

• Moisture management systems

• Proper vapor barriers for crawl spaces
  

4. Window Strategies That Preserve Character

While replacement windows are sometimes necessary, many older Wisconsin homes can achieve significant improvements without sacrificing historic character.

Improvements could include:

• Professional weatherstripping and sealing

• Storm windows (interior or exterior)

• Window insulation panels for winter months

• Strategic replacement of only the most problematic windows
  

The Wisconsin Advantage: Local Incentives and Programs

Wisconsin homeowners have access to several programs that can help offset the cost of energy improvements:

• Focus on Energy rebates and incentives

• Historic preservation tax credits for qualified properties

• City of Madison Green Madison program

• Utility company financing options
  

The Dun-Rite Difference: Understanding Wisconsin's Unique Homes

As a local Madison company, we understand the specific challenges of improving energy efficiency in the diverse housing stock throughout Wisconsin. From historic homes to mid-century properties and farm homes, we tailor our approach to each home's unique needs.

Our team specializes in finding the perfect balance between energy performance and preserving the character that makes your home special. We use minimally invasive techniques that protect your home's structure and finishes while dramatically improving its comfort and efficiency.

Beyond Insulation: A Whole-House Approach

While insulation forms the foundation of home energy efficiency, a comprehensive approach yields the best results:

• Heating and cooling system maintenance or upgrades

• Smart thermostats and zoning systems

• Strategic landscaping for seasonal shading

• Energy-efficient lighting and appliance upgrades
  

Contact Dun-Rite Insulation Today

Ready to transform your home into an energy-efficient haven without sacrificing its charm? Complete our online form or call us at 608-577-3020 to get a no-cost estimate or to schedule a Home Energy Audit.

Dun-Rite Insulation has been Madison's trusted insulation expert for over 40 years. Our experienced professionals understand the unique challenges of Wisconsin's climate and the specific needs of its diverse housing stock.

When You Want It Done Right, Choose Dun-Rite Insulation.

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