Best approach for insulating an old drafty farmhouse – where to start?

[Lars Eriksen]

Bought a 1920s farmhouse in Minnesota. Zero insulation in walls, minimal in the attic, single-pane windows everywhere. Energy bills are brutal. Where do I start?

[Nick Patel]

First step: get a professional energy audit with blower door test. It will tell you exactly where you are losing the most air. In old farmhouses that is typically rim joists, attic air sealing, plumbing and electrical penetrations.

[Lisa Hutchinson]

Rim joists first – highest ROI, low cost, easy DIY. Then attic air sealing not just insulation. Then walls if budget allows. Fix windows last since they are expensive relative to energy savings.

[Rex Harrington]

For a 1920s home check for knob-and-tube wiring before insulating walls. It is not safe to insulate over active K&T wiring. Have an electrician assess first.

[Lars Eriksen]

Great points. No K&T thankfully – it was rewired in the 80s. Energy audit is scheduled for next week. Will report back with results!

[Jennifer MacAllister]

Also look into state energy efficiency programs. Minnesota has good weatherization incentives. Sometimes free work through utility programs.

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