Winter in the U.S. can range from being mild and pleasant to downright agonizing and marred by excessive snow, sub-zero temperatures, and torrential downpours. It is never too late to winterize your home to ensure that your family stays warm and safe. Doing so will also prevent your heating bill from skyrocketing
While it may seem like a costly and labor-intensive job to prepare your home for winter, it doesn’t need to be. There are simple yet effective ways to keep your house warm, protect it against harsh winter, and keep it in good condition for the rest of the year.
Three Simple Ways to Winterize Your Home
1. Check Doors and Windows
Some houses take very long to heat up and almost immediately gets cold again as soon as you turn the heat off. If that’s the case, you should inspect your windows and doors thoroughly to determine their energy performance.
During inspection, you should be on the lookout for heavy drafts coming from the windows, cracks or chips in the glass, damaged frames, and loose caulking. Replace any damaged windowpanes and consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows if yours are very old.
You can also ensure you have winter-proof windows and doors by putting quality weather-stripping around the two. The practice will prevent air from moving between your house and the outdoors, while also keeping bugs and dust at bay.
2. Inspect Rooftop and Gutters
If you want to winterize your home, then ensure you check your roof at the beginning of fall before it gets too cold. But, routine inspections can be done throughout the year. Check for damaged or broken tiles and shingles and have them replaced as soon as possible.
Clogged gutters can hinder efficient water drainage and can also cause ice dams to form. Hence, they are not only a problem during winter but also whenever you experience rain throughout the year.
Therefore, clear your gutters of any branches, leaves, and other debris. Also, ensure that they are properly secured and in good condition.
While up on the roof, also inspect your solar panels if you have any. Look out for any damage that may necessitate repair or replacement. If you don’t yet have solar panels installed, consider doing so as you could end up saving up to a third of your energy bill by making use of solar power.
3. Add Extra Insulation
Among the easiest and cost-effective ways to ensure that your home stays warm during winter is to add extra padding. The insulation can be added to the exterior and interior walls, the attic, and pipes to slow down the rate of heat transfer.
The insulation will reduce your energy usage during winter by preventing hot air from escaping and cold air from entering the house. Furthermore, it will also keep your home cooler when it is hot outside.
An added benefit of improving the insulation of your house is the fact that it can increase its value. It will also make it more appealing to potential buyers.
Conclusion
Winterizing your home can be a great benefit. Not only will you be warmer during the coldest months, but your home will also remain in good condition throughout the entire year.
You can ensure you have a winter-proof home by checking windows and by inspecting rooftop and gutters and then taking the necessary corrective measures. Adding extra insulation to your house will also ensure it remains warm during the cold season.
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