How To Choose Insulation

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 50% to 70% of the energy used in homes is for heating or cooling activities. By properly insulating your home, you can create a more comfortable and consistent indoor climate while significantly improving your home's energy efficiency.  This buying guide will help you learn about the different types of insulation used in residential construction, and give you the knowledge and confidence necessary to make the right purchase decision to meet your home insulation needs.

Insulating your roof or ceiling will help keep your home at a pleasant temperature while saving you money on energy bills. With energy costs on the rise, maximizing the energy efficiency of your home is more important than ever before.

R-Value
	When choosing insulation, one of the most important qualities to note is the R-value, which indicates how well insulation resists heat transfer. R-values vary based on the type, thickness and density of the material being used. Insulation with a higher R-value will perform better than insulation with a lower rating. To determine the amount of insulation you need in each area, see Insulation R-Values.
Where Form Meets Efficiency
The most common insulation types are fiberglass, cellulose and foam. These types of insulation are available in a number of different forms. The type you need will depend on which type is currently installed and the required R value.

Insulation Types and Forms
Blown-in/Loose Fill
	Blow-in Insulation or loose fill insulation is usually made of fiberglass or cellulose (recycled paper fiber). It is blown or sprayed into place with pneumatic equipment and is ideal for use in hard-to-reach areas, such as attics. It can also be used to fill wall cavities and can be installed over existing insulation.
Batts
	Batts are precut sections of fiberglass or rock wool insulation that are designed for easy handling and use between framing, such as studs and joists. Batts are available either with or without paper or aluminum foil facing. They can be used in floors, walls, attics and ceilings.
Rolls
	Like batt insulation, rolls are available in pre-cut widths to fit between studs and joists, but come in longer continuous lengths ranging from 20 to 40 linear feet. This makes rolled insulation an excellent choice for attics, floors and other areas where longer runs are needed.
Foam Board
	Foam board insulation, or rigid panels of insulation can be used to insulate almost any part of your home, from the roof down to the foundation. Polystyrene and polyurethane are the most common types of materials used in making foam board. Foam board insulation sheathing reduces heat conduction through structural elements like wood and steel studs.
Spray Foam
	Latex or polyurethane spray foam is sprayed into place with a spray can or specially designed equipment. Spray foam can be used to fill small gaps and cracks and is ideal for sealing around doors, windows and vents. Special equipment to apply foam to larger areas. Spray foam sets quickly and can be trimmed, painted or stained.
Vapor Barriers
House wraps and kraft faced insulation are examples of vapor barriers that help control the amount of moisture that passes through the insulation. If moisture from either direction is allowed to build up within stud or cavity walls, the heat-conducting moisture will cause the insulation will lose its R-value and allow mold and rot to set in over time. Vapor barriers are most commonly used when framing the exterior walls of a house.

How To Caulk

Caulk is one of the most commonly used home improvement products. It’s easy to apply whether you’re repairing flashing on a roof, weatherizing a door or window, installing crown moulding, or painting a room.

This guide will give you a basic understanding of working with caulk by showing you how to caulk around a bathroom sink.

Tip: Caulk is available in squeezable or rigid plastic tubes. We recommend squeezable tubes for small projects. For larger projects, use the rigid tubes and a caulk gun.

Step 1: Prepare the surface
	Tip: If the gap you are caulking is greater than a 1/2 inch, press a foam backer rod into the space. If you are replacing old caulk, cut it out with a utility knife or scraper. Remove all dirt, dust, grease and debris. When removing silicone caulk, ensure all residue is completely removed. Use a rag to wipe the joint surface with rubbing alcohol or an over-the-counter disinfecting spray. Rinse thoroughly with water and dry.
Step 2: Tape the area
	Mask off areas around the joint where the caulk should not appear using painter’s tape. This will give you a straight line of caulk and will improve the final appearance.
Step 3: Cut the nozzle
	Read the instructions of your selected product for how to cut the nozzle. Some nozzles have a foil seal that will need to be punctured, and some nozzles also need to be removed to trim an inside seal. If using a squeeze tube, remove the cap and then trim the nozzle with scissors. For rigid plastic tubes, use a utility knife to cut off the tip of the nozzle at a 45-degree angle. The further down the nozzle the cut is made, the wider the line, known as the “bead,” of caulk will be.
Step 4: Apply the caulk
	If using a rigid plastic tube, place it in the caulking gun. Apply steady pressure to the trigger or squeeze tube and fill the gap with an even bead of caulk. It is best to push the caulk ahead of the nozzle to ensure that it gets into the joint for a proper seal.
Step 5: Smooth it out
	Tip: Some clear caulks will apply white and dry clear in seven to 14 days, depending on humidity and temperature. To reuse any remaining caulk on a future project, tightly seal the tube and store within the manufacturer's recommended temperatures. For a neat and professional-looking finish, “tool” or smooth the bead of caulk. Lightly drag a caulk finishing tool or putty knife to smooth the bead. If you applied painter’s tape, remove the tape prior to the caulk “skinning over” (meaning that the product has developed a firm skin on the surface, which normally occurs after a few hours). To correctly remove the tape, lift the edge up at a 45-degree angle away from you. Wipe away excess caulk with water and a damp cloth before the caulk dries. Excess dried caulk will need to be cut or scraped away.

Wall-Mounting a Flat Screen TV

Mounting a flat panel TV to the wall removes clutter and frees up floor and table space. A typical wall mount kit comes with two mounting arms that attach to the back of your TV and a wide bracket plate, which attaches to your wall. The mounting arms lock onto the bracket plate, securing the TV to the wall.

For the simplest installation and the tightest fit, consider purchasing a wall mount kit made by the manufacturer of your television. You might also want to conceal the TV’s power cord, as well as the cables running between the TV and your home theater components. To learn more, refer to our Using Wiremold Cord Covers to Hide Audio and Video Cables Project Guide.

Installing a TV wall mount is a project most people can do themselves with a few common tools. As you work on your project, be sure to follow the manufacturer‘s instructions that come with your bracket and television.

NOTE: Do not wall mount your TV if your house has metal studs as most will not support the weight of a television.




Preparation

• Be sure you have all necessary hardware and cable required to complete the installation.
• Read the manufacturer's mounting instructions for both the TV and the wall mount.
• Decide if you will leave the cables showing or hide them in the wall behind your TV.
• Arrange to have one or two other people present to help you hang the TV on the wall bracket.

Safety

• Ensure the area behind the wall where the TV will hang is clear of obstructions by using a cable-wire
  tester/locator before drilling to avoid damage to house wiring.
• Ensure your A/V cables meet all applicable building and fire codes. For in-wall installation, most require
  UL-rated wire labeled CL2 or CL3.

Savings

• Savings from installing the wall mount yourself can provide cash for more upgrades to your home
  entertainment system.
• Save time by keeping your helpers handy in case you need them for adjustments after initial installation.

$5 OFF $50 or more with Home Depot Promo Code! Online Only. FREE Shipping included!

Materials and Maintenance

Window frames may be made from a number of different materials.. Clad-wood windows are very common, as well as vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass. Wood can be painted and stained to match your decor. Vinyl is generally colored all the way through, meaning there's no need to paint. Scratches and nicks will be less evident.  Both wood and vinyl are non-conductive and perform well in terms of efficiency. It's important to keep both frames and windows clean to maintain performance and keep a good appearance. Make sure your house is well ventilated to help prevent the buildup of condensation on windows.

It’s important to keep both frames and windows clean to maintain performance and keep up appearance. Make sure your house is well-ventilated to help prevent the buildup of condensation on windows.
 

• Use glass cleaners to remove spots from windows
• Avoid hitting windows with high-pressure streams of water, as they may break
• Some glass coatings help prevent spots and streaks to minimize cleaning
• Clean frames with cleansers that are only mildly abrasive, and make sure to test a small, inconspicuous spot 
  first

 Window Accessories

	Skylights and Roof Windows: In addition to conventional windows, another way to add light and create the appearance of space in your home is with the addition of a skylight or roof window.
	Stained Glass Window Film: If you want to add a unique element of beauty to your home, you may want to consider stained glass window film. The designs and patterns from which you can choose are many, allowing you to select a window that suits your décor and personal style.
	Weatherstripping: Weatherstripping is essential to maintaining a high level of energy efficiency. Make sure the windows you purchase include high-quality weatherstripping.
	Screens: Having the windows open when the weather is nice is great, but chasing bugs around the house with a fly swatter is not. Screens allow you to enjoy a refreshing spring breeze without having to worry about the buzz of insects interrupting your relaxation.
	Storm Windows: Used in conjunction with existing windows,storm windows help increase energy efficiency. They are especially valuable in areas that experience extreme cold or hot climates. They also help negate the effects of wind and noise upon your home.

Installation Services

Look to The Home Depot professional window installation services to help make your home window installation projects easier. You can call 1-855-892-4401 to schedule your free in-home consultation.
 
We also provide professional home services with insured service providers to ensure that your projects are done right and on time. View our variety of home installation services and get started today.

Improve Energy Efficiency with New Windows

n addition to letting in light and giving you a beautiful view of your surroundings, windows are a crucial component in maintaining an energy-efficient home.

Replacing your old windows with new energy-efficient windows will have a significant impact on your heating and cooling bills.

Tighter seals and more advanced construction of many modern windows prevent cold and hot air from escaping and help maintain a more comfortable, consistent indoor climate without wasting energy.

New windows also give your home an updated look while increasing its value.

Consider the following questions to help guide you when purchasing new windows and give you a better understanding of window installation:

• What types of windows are available?
• What types of opening mechanisms do windows use?
• How do windows help improve energy efficiency?
• What materials are window frames made from?
• What steps should you take to properly maintain windows?

Go through this coupon and save up to 38% Windows at Home Depot!

Efficiency Windows are designed and installed primarily to provide three things: light, ventilation and a view of the outside world. While most windows accomplish all three tasks, some do so in a more energy-efficient manner than others.
Windows are generally comprised of the following:

Head: The piece that runs horizontally across the top.
Sill: The piece that runs horizontally across the bottom.
Jambs: Runs vertically up the sides.
Frame: The sill, head and jambs combine to form the frame, which may be made from various materials.
Panes: The glass pieces of a window; usually transparent, sometimes translucent or textured.
Sash: A border that frames the panes and holds them in place; made of the stiles and rails.
Rail: Horizontal part of a sash.
Stile: Vertical part of a sash.
Window Types
There are a number of window types available, including awning, double hung, casement, sliding, picture, bay, fixed and more.

The first decision you’ll need to make when purchasing a window is to determine what style is most appropriate for the room where it will be installed. Each has different characteristics and, in many cases, opens in a different manner. Consult the chart below to learn more about some of the available options.

Bath Lights Highlight Your Accessories

nstalling an appropriate lighting scheme in your bathroom can make a world of difference when it comes to everyday activities such as shaving, applying makeup and brushing your teeth. Since each bathroom is different, there are a variety of ways to maximize the effectiveness of light. Bathrooms without windows may require more light than those with windows. Small bathrooms may need only one light fixture while larger ones may require different types in different places.

In addition to ensuring adequate light for grooming and personal hygiene, you may want to choose fixtures that complement the style of your bathroom. Recessed lights, wall sconces and even vanity lights can all be both practical and elegant additions.

Keep the following questions in mind as you shop for new bathroom lighting:

           • How large is your bathroom?
           • Does it allow natural light into the area?
           • Where should lighting be placed for maximum effectiveness?
           • What types of fixtures are best for your bathroom?
           • Do you want or need nighttime illumination?




Placement and Style

One of the most important considerations when it comes to installing lights in your bathroom is how they will aid you in grooming. When placed at certain angles, lights can create shadows. While shadows can add a dynamic element in a family room or bedroom, they can cause you to miss a spot when you are shaving or apply too much or too little makeup in the bathroom.

Keep in mind how big your grooming mirror is and how to best place lights around it to minimize shadows. There are several different types of fixtures available, so you won't have a problem finding one that not only chases shadows away but complements your décor as well.

Placement: In smaller bathrooms, particularly those that have windows or do not have a shower or bathtub, you may only need one light to provide sufficient illumination. Installing the fixture into the middle of the ceiling will provide enough light, but it can also create shadows when you are using the mirror. In that case, you may want to install the light or lights above the mirror. To avoid uneven lighting, install a strip of lights for consistent illumination across the entire length of the mirror.

Lights placed at the side of a mirror will further reduce the likelihood of problematic shadows. In larger bathrooms, particularly those that do not have clear shower doors, you may need to install multiple lights, including one over the shower or above the commode. If you have a particularly spacious bathroom, you will need a combination of mirror, shower and overhead lights to effectively and stylishly illuminate the room.

           • Consider room size and external light sources before choosing fixtures
           • Avoid installing lights where they will create too many shadows
           • Install waterproof light fixtures in shower areas for added brightness
           • Glass lenses are less likely to yellow than plastic ones when installed over showers
           • Dimmer switches enable you to adjust light levels to accommodate different tasks
           • Low-wattage or under-cabinet lights make ideal nightlights

Strip Lights: Installing an LED strip light above your mirror is a good way to ensure evenly distributed lighting for grooming tasks. Choose bright, white bulbs to provide the best lighting. Installing strip lighting down each side of your mirror will generally minimize the appearance of shadows. A variety of styles including globes and upturned or downturned cups let you choose the best possible angle of illumination.

           • In small bathrooms, strip lights may be the only lights needed
           • Strip lights on the sides of a mirror more effectively reduce shadows
           • Halogen and fluorescent bulbs provide brighter illumination
         
Recessed and Overhead: Whether you wish to install lights over the tub, shower or toilet, recessed and overhead lights provide a range of styles that fit nearly any bathroom. Recessed lights are fixed into the ceiling, making them ideal for bathrooms with low ceilings or installing above your shower. Since only the trim and bulb are visible, they are unobtrusive and can provide either soft or very bright light, depending on which type of bulb and wattage you choose.

When installing overhead lights near mirrors, consider adding supplemental lights to the side of the mirror to reduce shadows for more accurate grooming.

           • Angle recessed lights to highlight tile work or wall decorations
           • Install lights alongside mirror to supplement overhead lights
           • Hanging lights add style and flare to larger bathrooms with high ceilings
           • Some overhead lights are paired with an exhaust fan for multipurpose operation
           
Wall: Wall lights can provide the perfect accent to artwork and other decorations while reducing shadows near your mirror and complementing overhead lights. Install sconces to highlight paintings or provide light above the toilet. Look for fixtures that complement your decor and supplement overhead lights in areas where extra illumination is needed.

           • Versatile design allows for both task and accent lighting
           • Use sconces alongside mirrors to create ideal light for grooming
           • Softer bulbs are ideal for accenting or providing ambient light

Buy Bath Lights Highlight at Home Depot now with Home Depot coupon code 2016!

Find Beautiful Sinks for Your Bathrooms

If you are remodeling your bathroom or building a new house, you will find that your lavatory sink options are far more plentiful than they once were. Gone are they days when a simple white, round sink was your only choice. Pedestal sinks, wall-hung sinks and vanity-mounted sinks all offer a host of colors, sizes, styles and shapes. If you are remodeling, a new sink can be a budget-conscious way to completely alter a bathroom's appearance.

Consider how frequently the bathroom is used, what kind of look you are going for and keep the following questions in mind as you shop to find the perfect fit:

• What style of sink best suits your bathroom?
• What color will fit best with your décor?
• How big does the sink need to be?
• Do you need storage room underneath?
• What materials are available, and what are the advantages of each? 

Design Considerations, Styles and Materials

The frequency with which you use your bathroom will help dictate which type of sink will fit best. Seldom used guest bathrooms, for example, probably won't require as much storage or counter space, so a stylish pedestal sink could be a perfect fit. If you are working with a large master bathroom, you may want to consider installing multiple sinks to make it easier for two people to get ready for work simultaneously in the morning.
 
Choose a material that will wear well, look good and fit within your budget, and select a style that is both easy to clean and attractive.
 

Color, Shape and Size

Choosing a color for your new sink will depend on the surrounding decor, whether you wish the sink to blend in or stand out and your personal preferences. Available shapes include round, oval, rectangle and asymmetrical designs. Some sinks are specially designed to fit into corners while others work better out in the open. If you need storage room, install a vanity-mounted sink. If you are installing the sink in a smaller bathroom and want to conserve floor space, choose a pedestal or wall-hung sink.
 

• Colors range from muted earth tones to bold, bright blues and greens
• Deeper sinks minimize the chances of water splashing back out
• Choose the largest sink you have room for to maximize available space
• 34-inches is a typical installation height 

Pedestal, Vessel and Wall-Hung Sinks

In smaller bathrooms, powder rooms or guest bathrooms, pedestal, vessel and wall-hung sinks can provide style without taking up a lot of floor space. Because they do not provide storage room, however, they may not work well in large or frequently used bathrooms. Be sure that the faucet spout is long enough to reach the bowl and bear in mind that freestanding sinks don't usually have an overflow hole and must be fitted with a grid drain. Vessel sinks, also called countertop sinks, sit directly on a counter and make a bold design statement. Faucets are often wall-mounted above a vessel sink.
 

• Wall-hung sinks are economical and easy to install
• Wall-hung sinks can easily accommodate wheelchairs
• Pedestal sinks offer a range of styles from Victorian to contemporary
• Pedestal sinks may require a larger up-front investment
• Choose a toilet to complement a pedestal sink's stylized leg
• Make sure a countertop sink doesn't sit up too high 

Vanity-Mounted Sinks

If you need storage space for toilet paper, cleaning products and more, a vanity-mounted sink is the perfect choice. They do require more floor space, so you may want to install them in larger bathrooms. There are a number of styles available, which makes it easy to choose one that best suits your bathroom. Self-rimming sinks are dropped into a hole in the countertop and are easy to install, though the rim joint can be difficult to keep clean. Integral sinks are molded from the same material as the counter, usually a solid-surface material. They are stylish and easy to install and clean, though you may need to replace the entire unit if either the sink or counter gets damaged. Integral sinks are often oval or round, but they may be rectangular or even trough-shaped.
 

• Self-rimming sinks sit just above counter level and can be matched to the faucet
• Self-rimming sinks may be more difficult to install and keep clean
• Under-mounted sinks have a low profile and emphasize the look of the countertop
• Countertops must be completely waterproof if you install an under-mounted sink
• Flush-mounted sinks are used with tile counters and have square edges equal in 
  thickness to the tiles, allowing them to sit flush with the countertop

Materials

Most sinks are available in a wide range of materials, though some styles, such as under-mounted sinks, can only be made from certain materials.