Winterize Your Home Tip #1
Decrease Heat Loss From Windows
One of the easiest ways to begin to winterize your home is to change your curtains out during the cold months. This can help to decrease heat loss from your windows. Choose a heavy weight material, or thermal lined curtains to keep the heat from escaping.
You’ll also want to be sure that your windows are properly sealed and no air is leaking from around the frame. Caulking can fix this type of issue, but you’ll want to consult a contractor to see if a window replacement is in order.
Winterize Your Home Tip #2
Inspect Your Roof for Debris & Damage
Another important trick to winterize your home is to give your roof a good look and be sure to remove any debris, namely leaves, pine needles, moss and dirt. You will also want to look for missing shingles, broken shingles, missing or damaged flashing, as well as clogged valleys and gutters. Clearing valleys and gutters will allow your roof to drain properly. Also, be sure to cut back any overgrowth from trees and bushes to prevent damage that may be caused to shingles, gutters and siding. Attic and eave vents should be checked to prevent the growth of molds and mildew. You should check the attic and your ceiling for staining and water damage from hidden leaks.
Winterize Your Home Tip #3
Change Your Furnace Filters
Be sure that your filter is changed out and check to see that your duct is free and clear of excess dust, lint and other debris. A clean filter will allow your furnace to work more efficiently, which will help you efficiently winterize your home.
Winterize Your Home Tip #4
Change Your Thermostat Settings
Changing your systems thermostat settings can easily be overlooked, so make sure that you set times and temperature settings that keep the house comfortable when you’re at home, but aren’t running too much when you aren’t home. This will help you save on energy cost.
Winterize Your Home Tip #5
Check Weather-stripping on Doors
Weather-stripping should be checked every season for ware and tear. Also, look at the door sweep at the bottom of the door. If these items are failing it will allow the cold to easily enter your home, which will make your system work harder and will make it difficult to keep a consistent temperature in your home.
Winterize Your Home Tip #6
Insulate Any Exposed Pipes
Broken waterlines are the last thing you want to deal with as a homeowner, but is essential in order to completely winterize your home. Make sure that all the exposed water lines around your homes exterior are properly insulated and secured to prevent breakage and leaks.
