This is a common problem with older cottages and on the Bruce Peninsula there are lots of older cottages.
If you own or have recently purchased an older cottage then you probably know what I'm talking about.
There are many reasons why this happens;
- Lack of insulation. Or older insulation or non at all.
- Older windows. Pierson windows which are singe pane or cheaper vinyl windows all air to invade the house through the glass and around the window it self.
- Holes. With older cottages there actual holes from previous renovations, animals and general age and weather.
What you should be thinking about is if you are planning a renovation then you should set aside money to update the insulation and the windows in the cottage. This isn't as appealing as changing the flooring or updating the kitchen and bathrooms but it's probably more important then any of the other things that I have listed above.
Since insulation has to be installed either in the walls or on the outside of the walls under the siding then it needs to be done first and should not be done later.
Updating the insulation and windows has a very positive affect for the cottage with little to no downside other then the upfront cost.
- Insulating and window replacement will reduce the energy consumption that it takes to heat the and cool the cottage. That's good for an area that high electricity rates.
- Ups the resale value of the cottage. Nothing helps raise the value like new windows.
- Allows longer use of cottage. With new windows and insulation you can use the cottage earlier in the year and later into the fall.
The wind blowing of the great lakes can be unrelenting, the only thing to do is to insulate against it. Stop the wind blowing through the cottage and change the windows and insulate.
Rob Abbott
Great Lakes Custom Homes Inc.
