Insulating your house is a practical home improvement with many advantages. Either installed at the time of construction or retrofitted, insulation will help reduce your carbon footprint and make your home a more comfortable place to live.

Find out the benefits of insulation here:

1. Increase energy efficiency. Insulation acts as a barrier that works for you two ways. In winter, it keeps heated air inside (and cold winds out). In summer, that pattern is reversed, as your insulation prevents cooled air from escaping. You’ll stay cozier while using less heating or cooling.

2. Cut utility bills. It’s expensive to run your A/C or furnace. When you make your house more energy-efficient with insulation, less electricity or other fuel will be needed. The results will show up in savings on your utility bills.

3. Reduce wear and tear on your HVAC system. You’ll also save cash another way: Your HVAC system tends to last longer and require fewer repairs if it is not overused. That means more time before you have to spend money to replace it.

4. Enjoy a healthier home. The comfortable temperature of a well-insulated home helps to keep your family healthy. What’s more, it reduces the amount of mold spores and pollen in the ambience, which improves your indoor air quality.

5. Add home value. A good insulation job is not exactly glamorous. However, when you put your home in Maine up for sale, it works as a big plus in attracting energy-smart buyers.