Chicago residents at a Logan Square weatherization workshop, Saturday, got a chance to learn about saving energy while keeping cold drafts out of their homes this winter.
About 40 people attended the workshop, held at the Logan Square Public Library by the Chicago Conservation Corps, which is part of the Chicago Department of Environment. The event was one of a series hosted by volunteers from C3, aimed at teaching residents how to prepare their homes for winter.
“I like the fact it’s useful for people and that everyone walks away with something that is valuable to them,” said Serena Larkin, leader of Saturday’s workshop.
At the event, attendees also received a free starter kit, with enough materials to weatherize a small flat.
Some of these items included clear poly tape, foam rods, weatherization strips and caulk.
“I feel if you are paying your own energy bills, you should be allowed to weatherize your place,” Larkin said during the workshop.
She explained that weatherization not only helps with winter heating, but also keeps cooler air inside during the summer and blocks out moisture that could damage windows and doors.
“It’s a fantastically successful program. It’s really a no-brainer,” Larkin said.
Audrey Landale, 24, of Logan Square, said she found the workshop very helpful. She said her home is about 100 years old and can be drafty in winter.
“I honestly, didn’t expect to learn so much about the different tools,” she said.
Phil Horn, a 24-year-old Uptown resident, said he attended the event to learn how to save energy and receive the free weatherization materials. “It saves a lot on heating bills and is ecofriendly,” he said.
Kristen Pratt, Student Clubs Project Coordinator and WRD environmental consultant for C3, said the main goals of weatherization are comfort, reduction of greenhouse gas emissions and saving money through reducing energy consumption.
“Weatherizing makes it so you don’t feel drafts… which make you happier in the winter,” she said.
The organization’s weatherization workshops target mainly lower-income communities in the city, because of the poorer housing conditions in some of these areas.
Northwest Side residents who missed Saturday’s event, still have a chance to attend a C3 workshop before a deep freeze settles in this winter.
For those who missed Saturday’s workshop, the Portage Cragin Library, 5108 W. Belmont Ave., will hold another weatherization event, Saturday, Dec. 10, at 10:00 a.m.
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