National Trust for Historic Preservation Launches "Weatherization Guide for Older and Historic Buildings"
Interactive Online Guide Offers Robust Resources for Homeowners Working to Make Their Homes More Energy and Financially Efficient
Posted September 2, 2009 | Contact pr@nthp.org or 202-588-6141
Washington, D.C. (September 10, 2009)-Today, the National Trust for Historic Preservation launched an online guide offering homeowners a one-stop resource with the latest information about how to make their home more energy efficient and comfortable - without spending a lot of money or compromising the historic character of their home. Called the "Weatherization Guide for Older and Historic Buildings," the interactive guide can be found at: www.PreservationNation.org/weatherization.
Older and historic homes were, out of necessity, designed for energy conservation - from deep porches and wide roof overhangs providing shade, to thick walls and windows strategically placed to help circulate air - both blocking heat gain and preventing heat loss. The interactive guide helps homeowners learn how they can cost-effectively make their older or historic home even more energy efficient without jeopardizing the distinctive character of the home. The Weatherization Guide includes:
Whole House Resource Bank - An online portal to five full sections - General Weatherization, Windows, Roofing, Insulation, and Mechanical Systems, also includes nearly 200 links to Web sites, articles, reports, case studies, and do-it-yourself checklists all written, prepared, and presented by movers and shakers in the fields of preservation and energy conservation.
Windows - Advice on retrofitting old windows and key facts on the question of whether to repair or replace your windows includes:
- 10 Reasons to Repair Your Old Windows
- Love Your Windows photo database
- Repair or Replace Old Windows: a Visual Look at the Impacts
- Window Types - Residential Field Guide
Insulation - An explanation of the right and wrong ways to add insulation
Roofing - Suggestions for ways to go green include:
- Start with the Roof: A Guide for Keeping Weather Tight
Mechanical Systems - Advice on active and passive measures
Conversation with an Energy Auditor - Counsel for homeowners from professionals around the country on their experiences
Incentives - Listing of funding resources available for weatherization
The National Trust for Historic Preservation developed the interactive guide in response to the growing interest in weatherization and energy conservation, in part generated by the recent federal stimulus package, which sets aside an unprecedented amount of funding for weatherization and energy efficiency upgrades. Some policies and statements, including some from the U.S. Department of Energy, actually favor replacing old windows despite studies that show original windows can often perform as well as, if not better, than replacements. Being green does not and should not have to translate into buying new and throwing out the old; the Weatherization Guide was designed to educate, engage and offer resources to homeowners looking for a truly green option.
The National Trust for Historic Preservation, a privately-funded nonprofit organization, works to save America’s historic places to enrich our future. www.PreservationNation.org
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