The U.S. Department of Energy has developed a measuring system to help homeowners determine the thermal resistance of different insulation materials, such as windows, siding and fiberglass insulation. The Department of Energy recommends that homes have a combined R-Value of 11. Argon is an inert gas that prevents outside air from penetrating the home. The foam-filled frame acts as an additional insulator around seams and helps reduce noise. Doors, like windows, should have tight seals.
Homeowners can use caulking around windows and doorframes to insure strong seams.
Insulate existing walls with insulating foam. Foam is blown into walls throughout the home and takes up space within the walls. Homeowners can also roll fiberglass insulation onto attic floors. For the exterior, insulate with solid-core siding. While foam and fiberglass insulate only the wall cavity, solid core siding insulates the entire wall, including studs and joists.