(NC) -- Start at the top, if you're looking to reduce your heating and cooling costs—and the top is in your attic.

“If your home is more than 30 years old, chances are your attic insulation could use some bolstering,” says Carlo Racioppo, a broker at Royal LePage Realty Plus in Mississauga, Ontario. “On any list of energy upgrades, tackling the attic first allows you to start the work anytime with minimal disruption to your home and family.”

Racioppo suggests kicking off the process with an energy audit. You can check for government-sanctioned energy rebates that apply within your province and in order to qualify an energy audit is required. The assessment will determine the current R-value of your attic's existing insulation, along with other metrics throughout the home. R-values indicate the insulation effectiveness; the higher the number the more effective it is.

Next, determine what type of insulation is best. Generally, blown-in spray foam insulation is best for attics as this method will cover all surfaces, including the rafters. This option is quick and easy to install through the services of a specialized contractor. However, if you're looking to do the job yourself, batt insulation is an economical option, with many products to choose from, including some made from recycled materials. If you choose batt insulation, be sure to cut and fit each batt properly to achieve the greatest R-value.

More information on increasing the value and comfort of your home is available at www.royallepage.ca.