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2torial #0562:
Learn2 Weatherize Your Home
 Consider professional
weatherization
If you live in a particularly extreme climate,
or your house hasn't undergone serious insulation
efforts in more than 20 years, you may want to
consider taking actions that require a professional
contractor. These might include installing storm
windows, applying insulation to outside walls, or
blowing insulation into hard-to-reach places such
as crawl spaces.
If you do decide to take such steps, shop around
first. Not all contractors are equally skilled, and
prices can vary widely. Many people spend more on
professional weatherization than they'll ever save
on energy bills. So before you settle on a
contractor, you should consider the following:
- Focus on local companies. Both quality and
price tend to be better.
- Consult your local Better Business Bureau
(BBB) to find out about a company's reliability.
Look up the office in your local white pages, or
consult the BBB's Web site at
www.bbb.org.
- Make sure your contractor is licensed and
insured.
- Get three detailed bids in writing so you
know exactly how much you're paying, and what
you're paying for.
- Check references.
Most importantly, see what steps you yourself
can take. You may find you can cut your energy
bills down to size without calling in professional
help. In fact, a small investment in time and money
can have a handsome pay-off over the long term. And
the polar ice caps will thank you.
-end-
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