Every house has it’s own quirks, but each house type has some typical characteristics. We have been through over 1000 homes and noted some of these. We will ask you a lot of questions about specific issues in your home at our initial consultation, but you will likely see some of the issues you have here. 

ranch-blue Ranch
Ranches are simple creatures that are typically easier and less expensive than other types to work on. Typically one end bedroom runs cold, and if there is an addition it is rarely comfortable. The bathrooms tend to be on the small side, so if bathroom fans don’t exist or they aren’t run enough there are typically signs of mold. Ranches do tend to be pretty air tight initially and can be very comfy and cheap to run after upgrades.
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split-level-blue Split level
Split level homes make very good use of their square footage. They have a few classic comfort problems, though. The lower level is often below ground and often is used as a family room, so it does not heat well in the winter (it cools fine.) The second story often has ‘bump out’ cantilevers in the front and rear, usually in a bedroom, and the floor is cold there, which makes the whole room feel cold. There is also typically a large chase between the sections where plumbing, wiring, and ductwork is run. The trouble is it’s a major air leak, increasing energy bills, leading to an uncomfortable spot by the stairs, and often freezing the pipes running through the chase. 
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two-story-blue Two story
Two story homes can be some of the best looking homes out there. There are some drawbacks, though. Since their construction is relatively complex, with a lot of junctions between the stories, they tend to be fairly leaky, especially older homes. The second floor tends to be heated in the summer, often 10-15 degrees warmer than the first floor, and air conditioned in the winter – exactly the opposite of what you would like. Newer 2 story homes usually have a knee wall by the garage attic (a wall with an attic on the other side) that often causes the master bedroom or bathroom, or sometimes a kid’s room to be uncomfortable. Vaulted ceilings can also make the master suite cold. Since they are taller, the stack effect, which makes air rise through the home in winter and fall in summer, is more pronounced than in other types, making them harder to heat and cool. Older homes often have uninsulated walls, which can make rooms feel colder than they are. No worries, we can find the root causes and give you options for how to solve these problems.
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cape-cod-blue Cape cod/
Half story
Is your top floor freezing in the winter and boiling in the summer? We can help that. Cape Cods (and 2.5 story homes) are typically the leakiest type, which means they are very drafty and uncomfortable. The upstairs is often 15 degrees warmer than downstairs in summer. These need a special eye for detail as there are likely more attic spaces than you realize to work with. They can be quite cozy once fixed, though!
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