As energy costs continue to climb and the economy tightens, there’s no better time to evaluate the energy efficiency of your home.

By choosing the right insulation for specific areas of a home, homeowners can save big bucks on their heating and cooling bills and enjoy a more comfortable abode.

The attic should be the first target, as it is likely the most accessible and least expensive, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. For attics, blow-in insulation provides uniform coverage and goes a long way in boosting a home’s thermal efficiency.

Unfinished basements, which can contribute to roughly one-third of the total heat loss in a home, also can drain a home’s energy efficiency. Fiberglass batt insulation, a tried-and-true insulating option, is ideal in increasing a home’s R-value, or insulating power, in below-grade areas.

For more challenging areas of a home, such as under stairwells, around plumbing fixtures or along cathedral ceilings, polyurethane spray-foam insulation is an excellent solution, according to experts.

Spray-foam insulation is sprayed into a cavity and expands to fill every nook and cranny, preventing heated air from escaping.

Homeowners looking to build a new home or addition should take advantage of a more sophisticated, science-based approach in insulating their home.

Experts in the industry have discovered that using a combination of blown-in insulation, fiberglass batts and spray-foam insulation can give the best results and maximize a homeowner’s investment.

Regardless of a home’s needs, homeowners can rely on a wide range of resources to help navigate through the various options for home insulation either by contacting a local insulation contractor or insulation manufacturer.

Turning to the experts to tackle home energy efficiency not only will alleviate uncertainty, it will guarantee the best results for long-lasting comfort in your home