Identify areas of the home that needs insulation.

Insulation is measured by its R-value, not its thickness. Insulation with a higher R-value is more efficient.

Required R-values may vary for walls, ceilings, attics, etc.

Also consider "weatherizing components" that can save energy costs:

visit our Home Product Showcase for complete information on insulation and weatherizing:

view center: insulation / weatherizing

From howstuffworks.com:

learn about insulation:
about insulation

Getting Started:

Step 1: develop the plan
take a completed draft of the spec sheet to your architect or planner, who will can customize a home building plan or revise an existing plan that meets your specs.

use your spec sheet and floor plan to bid the construction project to contractors


Step 2: get required building permits
It will either be up to you or the contractor to obtain each permit.

• all about permits
  
• lookup your local government for permit information
  
  

Step 3: find pre-screened contractors and
other service providers:

find a contractor Use this quick search to find customer-rated contractors from your area. Get reviews.