Humber/Ontario Real Estate Course 3 Exam Practice

Which method involving insulation is often used to enhance energy efficiency in homes?

1. Installing double-pane windows.

2. Increasing the depth of ceiling insulation.

3. Adding thicker wallboards.

4. Injecting foam insulation into walls.

5. Using weather stripping around doors.

6. Installing radiant floor heating systems.

The correct answer is: Increasing the depth of ceiling insulation.

Increasing the depth of ceiling insulation is a widely recognized method for enhancing the energy efficiency of homes. This approach capitalizes on the principle that heat rises, meaning a significant amount of heat can escape through the roof if the ceiling insulation is insufficient. By increasing the thickness or depth of insulation in the ceiling, homeowners can effectively reduce heat loss in the winter and keep spaces cooler in the summer, leading to lower energy costs and a more comfortable indoor environment. This method also complements other energy-efficient practices, contributing to an overall reduction in energy consumption. The effectiveness of ceiling insulation is often quantified in terms of R-value, which measures the insulation's resistance to heat flow. A higher depth of insulation leads to a higher R-value, indicating better thermal performance. While options like double-pane windows and the other choices listed can also contribute to energy efficiency, they do not directly address the thermal losses that occur at the ceiling level, making increasing the depth of ceiling insulation particularly impactful.