A very simple explanation of the Chevron Deference
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You are correct that as built, the older homes used a bit more electricity and gas. But minor retrofits such as added attic insulation and insulated windows can go along way without a tremendous cost. Also keep in mind that every tradesperson must be licensed….another layer of cost vs. a Jack of all trades type that could do the same quality work for less than half the cost. I could build a 1200 s.f.home for $100,000. And it would meet the code. But I’m not “allowed” to do it. And there are others I know that could do the same.
Jack of all trades are usually masters of nothing. All these "fixes" people do to their homes on a budget more often than not compound problems because they don't know what they're doing. Most trades people don't either, that's why it's best to start with a blank slate and Keep It Simple Stupid.
Adding attic insulation doesn't stop air leakage or control moisture. You just end up with more dust coming through your wall penetrations. Things like attic fans do nothing but jack of all trades are all to happy to take your money and install them.
Once you start sealing these leaking homes up all that dirty air coming through every crack no longer supplies the air that's being burned up by the furnace, hot water tank, or exhausted by the stove exhaust. You have to add makeup air which introduces a whole bunch of other issues which don't get addressed on a budget.