South Africans may find the idea of home insulation a bit strange as it is usually associated with staying warm, but this assumption is far from the truth. The insulation of a property will be seen as a valuable improvement and can only be a benefit in the future.
The principal behind insulation is that it keeps warm air in when the weather is cold and traps cold air when the weather is warmer. This allows the temperature of the home to remain moderate and to be managed more easily. Many home buyers will be eager to purchase properties that already have insulation installed as it will save them some effort.
Because of the electricity shortages the country is facing insulation may also become a standard requirement in South African properties because of its energy saving capabilities. Basically insulation enables you to use your heater or air-conditioner far less because the home will remain at a more acceptable temperature thereby saving on your electricity bill.
There are a couple of things to keep in mind when selecting a type of insulation, they include non-combustibility, acoustic properties and durability. A qualified professional will be able to answer any questions you may have regarding these points. Another thing to consider is whether or not to go Green, there are various types of recycled paper insulation options out there as opposed to the more mainstream recycled glass options that have proven popular in the past.
If you are considering insulating your home and don’t have a huge budget you can start small by just insulating your roof, geyser and geyser pipes. Then at a later date when you have more funds available you could expand by installing double glazing in your windows.
Remember, there are probably some changes in store for South African homeowners and it may serve you best to be ahead of the times and modify a few things now when things are a bit more affordable.
What do you think? Is insulation worth it?
