Weatherization: Do It Yourself

Many projects that can make a big difference in a family’s energy costs and level of comfort at home can be done by homeowners themselves. Town energy committees, state and federal agencies, utilities, local libraries, and home improvement and hardware stores are all excellent resources for homeowners looking for information about do-it-yourself weatherization.

For those needing a little more hands-on instruction, a number of local organizations offer information workshops and training sessions, including UV HEAT partner organization COVER Home Repair and the Central Vermont Community Action Council (CVCAC).

COVER Home Repair offers classes on numerous home improvement topics, including weatherization. The classes are open to anyone for a small fee (financial assistance is available for those who income qualify). To learn more about COVER’s do-it-yourself weatherization and other education classes, visit www.COVERhomerepair.org or call (802) 296-7241.

CVCAC and SERG produced a DVD, titled Button Up Vermont Simple Weatherization Measures to Button Up Your Home, that instructs homeowners on installing several important home weatherization measures. Available from SERG at (802) 785-4126 or  This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. and local libraries, the DVD can also be viewed online by clicking here.

CVCAC conducts workshops for Vermont residents that include in-depth homeowner training, energy audits of each participants’ home and assistance in developing a work plan with a certified Building Performance Institute contractor. Participants in CVCAC's Do It Yourself program qualify for up to $2,500 in financial incentives from Efficiency Vermont. For more information about CVCAC’s workshops, visit www.WeatherizationSkillshop.com or call (888) 514-2151.

Expiring Offer: Homeowners can also get federal tax credits on 30 percent of the cost of weatherization materials and energy efficient heaters up to $1,500 through December 31, 2010. For more information, click here.