New Homes in Acworth GA – Consider These Building Tips

The life-changing event of purchasing a new home can be both exciting and overwhelming. With homebuyer horror stories of houses plagued with mold, leaky roofs or worse, it’s no wonder some homebuyers get cold feet. As construction increases, you may be considering buying a new home in Acworth GA. Prospective homebuyers should consider these useful construction do’s and don’ts:

  • Help prevent mold before it starts. Ask your builder to use vapor retarders in addition to insulation in your home’s walls. Smart vapor retarders allow wall cavities to “breathe” so excess moisture within the wall can escape. This helps prevent the growth of mold and mildew. Other vapor retarders can trap moisture in your walls, creating an environment that supports mold growth.
  • Work with your builder to ensure that no mechanical equipment, ductwork or plumbing is built into exterior walls, vented attics or vented crawlspaces.
  • Take control of your home’s temperature and acoustics by ensuring your contractor insulates with the correct R-value for your region. Regional R-values can be found online.

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insulation map[/su_frame]

Zone Add Insulation to Attic Floor
Uninsulated Attic Existing 3–4 Inches of Insulation
1 R30 to R49 R25 to R30 R13
2 R30 to R60 R25 to R38 R13 to R19
3 R30 to R60 R25 to R38 R19 to R25
4 R38 to R60 R38 R25 to R30
5 to 8 R49 to R60 R38 to R49 R25 to R30
Wall Insulation: Whenever exterior siding is removed on anUninsulated wood-frame wall:

  • Drill holes in the sheathing and blow insulation into the empty wall cavity before installing the new siding, and
  • Zones 3–4: Add R5 insulative wall sheathing beneath the new siding
  • Zones 5–8: Add R5 to R6 insulative wall sheathing beneath the new siding.

Information provided by EnergyStar.gov

  • Windows are often the largest single source of heat loss and heat gain in a home. Select vinyl windows with low-E glass and a high-performance glazing system that reduces heat transmission through the glass.
  • Know what’s under your roof. For instance, waterproofing shingle underlayments go under asphalt roof shingles to further protect your home’s interior from winter leaks caused by ice dams and wind-driven rain.

Are you looking at energy conservation when considering new homes in Acworth GA or any area? Understanding the terminology, changes in energy conservation and building standards will help you make an informed decision. Working with a real estate agent familiar with your neighborhood and these details can help you. Contact us if you are ready to explore home ownership.