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Discover how energy saving home improvements can improve efficiency with affordable upgrades

Looking to cut down your energy bills and increase comfort at home? Energy saving home improvements are the smart choice, especially when you can get high-quality products for less. At Builders Surplus, we help DIY homeowners and contractors across Rhode Island, Connecticut, and Massachusetts make their homes more energy efficient with high-quality materials at unbeatable prices.

From replacing outdated doors to upgrading your windows and adding stylish, insulating moulding, many projects can end up paying for themselves over time. Keep reading for the best improvements that make a noticeable difference—without breaking the bank.

Want help getting started? Visit our contact page or call us at 866-739-1636 to talk with one of our knowledgeable staff members today!

1. Upgrade Your Doors for Better Insulation

One of the easiest ways to make your home more energy efficient is by upgrading old or poorly insulated interior and exterior doors. Energy loss often happens around entryways, especially when doors are warped, cracked, or improperly fitted.

Why it matters:

• High-quality doors help prevent drafts and air leakage. 
• Insulated exterior doors reduce heating and cooling costs. 
• New interior doors can also help with room-specific temperature control. 

How Builders Surplus can help:
We carry a wide range of first-quality interior and exterior doors, including custom-sized options from our on-site Custom Door Shop. Whether you need a door replacement or something made to fit an older home, our experts can assist you from start to finish.

2. Add Energy-Efficient Windows

Windows play a huge role in your home’s energy efficiency. If you feel a chill standing near yours in the winter—or they fog up in the summer—it might be time for an upgrade.

Energy-efficient window benefits:

• Reduced heat loss during colder months. 
• Lower cooling needs in summer. 
• Increased natural light without sacrificing comfort. 

At Builders Surplus:
You’ll find windows at substantial savings. Our team will help you measure properly (understanding rough opening vs. actual size) and select the right window style and materials for your space. Learn more in our Window Center.

3. Install Decorative and Functional Moulding

Moulding doesn’t just add charm—it can help insulate your home by sealing air gaps around floors, ceilings, and doors.

Try this for energy savings:

• Install base moulding to reduce drafts along the floor. 
• Use crown moulding to minimize gaps at the ceiling line. 
• Add casing around windows and doors to block unwanted airflow. 

We stock an impressive variety of decorative trim and moulding styles—from simple to ornate—all at a fraction of big-box store prices. These small upgrades can add up to big savings over time while enhancing the look of any room.

4. Replace or Refinish Hardwood Flooring

Believe it or not, the right flooring can impact your home’s energy efficiency. Poorly maintained or gapped hardwood floors allow cold air to seep in, especially in older homes.

Energy-saving flooring tips:

• Refinish and seal hardwood floors to close gaps. 
• Choose hardwood that pairs well with radiant heating systems. 
• Consider replacing damaged boards that let in drafts. 

Builders Surplus carries premium hardwood flooring in oak, maple, ash, birch, cherry, and walnut. Whether you’re patching a section or redoing an entire room, we offer stunning selections that perform well year-round.

5. Consider Vinyl Flooring with Insulating Underlayment

Vinyl flooring has come a long way—it’s stylish, durable, and when installed with the right underlayment, provides added insulation and noise reduction.

Advantages of insulated vinyl flooring:

• Keeps floors warmer in winter. 
• Dampens sound in multi-level homes. 
• Adds a protective barrier against moisture. 

Check out our full range of luxury vinyl planks and tiles, perfect for bathrooms, kitchens, and basements. And don’t forget to ask our team about pairing it with an insulating underlayment for maximum comfort.

6. Seal Gaps and Cracks in Existing Floors and Trim

Even small cracks in floors or around trim can contribute to significant energy loss. A weekend project sealing these gaps can make a real difference.

Recommended fixes:

• Use flexible gap fillers between hardwood floorboards. 
• Fill in trim and baseboard gaps with caulk or wood strips. 
• Add natural-fiber rope to wide gaps in old plank floors (yes, it works!). 

These materials are easy to find and apply—and you’ll find them (and expert advice) at your local Builders Surplus store.

Improve Your Home and Save Money Year-Round

When you’re ready to take control of your energy costs and boost home comfort, turn to Builders Surplus. We help New England homeowners and contractors find budget-friendly, energy saving home improvement solutions every day. From doors and windows to trim, flooring, and special orders from our Custom Door Shop, we’ve got what you need—without the gimmicks.

Ready to start saving? Contact us today online or call 866-739-1636. Our team is here to help you make energy-smart choices that last.

Photo by Aasing Gwok on Unsplash