Order of Operations for mechanicals updates and air sealing + insulation
Looking for advice on order of operations for energy retrofits…
We’re planning a renovation on our poorly insulated and leaky home. Renovations will include
– Assessing and address structural needs
– insulation and air sealing (heavily subsidized by Mass Save)
– updates to electrical and wiring (increase amperage and update panel).
– updates to heating system (currently hydronic and HW convectors/baseboards… looking at ducted heat pumps)
– new siding plus updated windows, as needed, potentially exterior insulation.
I believe order should be
1) Address structural needs
2) electrical
3) insulation and air sealing
4) exterior updates + windows
5) heating system
Is this correct?
Ideally I’d air seal and insulate ASAP, but I don’t want to add extra work for tradespeople (carpenters, electricians, HVAC, etc) to get around insulation and rim joist sealing.
Thanks!
Replies
This is how I would approach the project.
1) structural
2) exterior updates and windows
3) ductwork
4) electrical and panel
5) insulation and air sealing
6) finish heating system
This way you're not stepping on any trade's work and having to disturb any work
Wire is flexible.
Ducts and plumbing (if needed), not so much.
The correct order for me is as follows:
1) Address structural needs
2) electrical
3) heating system
4)insulation and air sealing
5) exterior updates + windows