Housing Slump Spurs Renovations Housing Market Dip Sparks Money Saving Renovations Three areas key to saving money & energy ATLANTA, GA - The dip in home sales is spurring many home owners not only to stay put, but to hammer out ways to save money on their current home. "Instead of selling and moving in today's housing downturn, many are doing major remodeling work on their houses to add square footage while at the same time looking for ways to make them more energy efficient," says Pat Dotson, partner, High Grove Communities LLC, an Atlanta-based residential construction company. Dotson suggested that those considering renovation pay considerable attention to the windows, insulation and roofing -- three major areas where money escapes in the form of heating and cooling inefficiencies. "Improvements in these key areas will not only save money for the home owner but add value to a home when a decision to sell is made," he adds. Windows "In older houses windows can account for one-third of the total heat escaping from the house in the winter and as much as 75 percent of heat gain in the summer. "When you go window shopping look for new ones with fiberglass, vinyl or wood frames but avoid aluminum, since it conducts heat and can bring outside heat into the house. Wood is the most popular, is strong and insulates well. Vinyl doesn't need to be painted or stained. Fiberglass is relatively new to the window market and is strong and also insulates well but may be pricier than the other two. The homeowner should pay close attention the rating of the glass. Low-E coatings on the inside of the glass reduce the UV factor, which help decrease energy cost." As far as the window itself, most good quality windows today are double-paned with some even triple-paned. Roof Dotson also suggests that if a roof is being replaced opt for the lightest color possible. Switching from dark colored shingles to light ones can result in a reduced summer cooling bill of some 40 percent. Less heat may be absorbed in the winter with a light colored roof, but the amount of money saved in the hot months more than makes up for the difference. The home owner should ensure that the roofing contractor installs the attic ventilation to meet code. Proper attic ventilation enables heat to escape the attic, improving energy cost and improving the longevity of the shingles. Insulation Properly insulating a home can save hundreds of dollars a year on energy bills. "The type of insulation needed depends on a number of factors including climate, type of heating (oil, gas, electricity, etc.) and the area of the house being insulated," says Dotson. "Unless a person fully understands the factors involved in insulating a home, it is recommended that a professional conduct an energy audit prior to work being performed." To reduce a cooling bill even further, use light colors when painting the house he adds. Consumers can access the Energy Wizard at www.EnergyWizard.info to read about a range of topics from conservation and new technologies to generators and tax incentives; ask energy related questions; or read the latest Energy Wizard columns.

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