Energy efficiency isn’t just about lowering your bill. It’s about making your home work smarter. A well-insulated, properly ventilated home stays more comfortable year-round and lasts longer too.

In Episode 11 of The STAN’dard, Liz and Kevin break down the real ways homeowners can make a difference — from attic insulation and windows to roof ventilation and siding upgrades. If your energy bills have been climbing or your home struggles to stay comfortable, this one’s for you.

1. The Power of Proper Insulation

Insulation is your home’s winter coat. Without enough of it, your furnace or air conditioner has to work twice as hard.

In the Midwest, your attic should have about 18 inches of insulation to keep heat where it belongs. If you can see the wooden beams (called joists), you don’t have enough. Adding more can drastically reduce heating and cooling costs.

đź’ˇ Pro Tip: Blown-in insulation is quick to install and reaches every corner for better coverage than traditional batts.

2. Seal Up the Gaps

Even a small draft can cost big money over time. Air leaks around windows, doors, outlets, and attic hatches let your conditioned air escape.

Check for cold spots in winter or warm drafts in summer. Weatherstripping, caulk, and foam sealant are inexpensive fixes that make a big difference.

Kevin said it best in the episode: “You wouldn’t leave your fridge cracked open. Why leave your house that way?”

3. The Roof’s Role in Efficiency

Your roof does more than keep you dry. A properly ventilated and insulated roof system controls indoor temperature, prevents ice dams in winter, and reduces attic heat buildup in summer.

Ridge vents, soffit vents, and baffles all work together to keep airflow steady. Without them, your attic can become a furnace in July and a freezer in January. Both extremes drive up your bills.

💡 If your attic feels like a sauna in summer, it’s time to have your ventilation checked.

4. Siding That Saves Energy

Your siding isn’t just for looks. Insulated siding adds an extra layer of thermal protection and can reduce outside noise. Materials like LP SmartSide or insulated vinyl help maintain consistent indoor temperatures.

When paired with house wrap and proper installation, siding becomes one of the most effective ways to increase your home’s efficiency without sacrificing style.

5. Window Wisdom

Old or poorly sealed windows are one of the biggest culprits of energy loss. If you feel a draft when you stand near a window or notice condensation between the panes, it might be time for an upgrade.

Look for ENERGY STAR-rated models with double or triple panes, low-E coatings, and gas fills. They help keep the heat out in summer and the warmth in during winter.

💡 You don’t always have to replace every window at once. Start with the draftiest rooms first and work your way through the house.

6. Smart Thermostats and Simple Habits

Technology can help too. Smart thermostats learn your routine and automatically adjust the temperature when you’re away or asleep. Even a two-degree change can save hundreds of dollars per year.

Other simple habits include:

  • Closing blinds on hot summer afternoons
  • Opening them on sunny winter days
  • Cleaning HVAC filters regularly
  • Using ceiling fans to improve airflow

Energy efficiency is all about small, consistent choices that add up over time.

7. Why Efficiency Adds Value

An efficient home isn’t just comfortable. It’s more valuable. Buyers love seeing lower utility bills and modern upgrades like insulated siding or new windows. It’s one of the few home improvements that pays you back every single month.

At Stan’s Roofing, Siding, Decks & Unlimited Basements, we help homeowners find the right balance between comfort, cost, and sustainability. Our inspections include a full look at insulation, ventilation, and exterior efficiency — so your home works as hard as you do.


Energy efficiency doesn’t have to mean a full remodel. With the right insulation, sealed gaps, and smart ventilation, your home stays cozy in winter and cool in summer without wasting energy.

Ready to see how efficient your home really is? The team at Stan’s can walk you through every upgrade option that fits your home, budget, and lifestyle.

đź“ž Call (708) 448-4100 or visit www.stansroofingandsiding.com to schedule your free home efficiency inspection.