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Insulating windows without plastic is usually the better method. Outside of simply replacing your windows, you could buy cellular shades, which trap air between the window and the home, add a window film that blocks UV rays and traps heat, or cover your windows with a low-emissivity coating called “low-E.”

For standard 2x4 walls, the ideal insulation has an R-value between R-13 and R-15. This level of insulation, typically around 3.5 inches thick, fits well within the wall cavity. Common options include fiberglass batts and spray foam. The best choice for your home can depend on your climate; use R-value maps, like those from Energy Star, to determine the recommended level for your region. For colder climates, you might also consider adding exterior insulation for greater efficiency. Always check with your local building codes to ensure you meet any required standards.

Minimal maintenance is required, though regular inspections to ensure insulation hasn't shifted or deteriorated can improve performance over time.

Monolithic slabs don’t require insulation, but many homeowners choose to have their contractors install insulation under the slab during construction. This can help improve home efficiency even more and keep indoor temperatures more stable. Slab foundations are more energy-efficient than uninsulated crawl spaces and basements, and insulated slab foundations are more energy-efficient than insulated crawl spaces and basements.