Few things are as dreadful as the winter months. From cold and dreary days to absurdly high energy bills, winter can be a truly awful season for a homeowner.
Luckily, there are a few things you can do to make the winter months a little easier on yourself.
Finding ways to winter proof your home? There are plenty, and they’re things you should be doing to not just prep your home for the winter, but to make your home more comfortable year-round.
Keep reading to learn more about 5 ways to winter proof your home.
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1. Caulk or Re-Caulk Your Windows
Caulk is a flexible material that is applied between joints, seams, and openings to help prevent air and water from entering the home. Applying caulk to windows and doors helps to prevent drafts and keep cold air out.
Make sure to check windows and doors inside and outside for damage that needs to be repaired or replaced and caulk any gaps that could be letting the cold air in. Recaulking is especially important in older homes where the caulk might be cracked or failed, allowing air and water to enter the home.
2. Add New Insulation
Preparing for winter weather required increasing the insulation in attics and walls that can prevent the heat from escaping. It can also reduce your energy bills. Start by assessing your current insulation levels to determine how much new insulation is needed.
Consider foam fills, mineral wool, and blown-in insulation, as well as shiny reflective barriers. Before installing new insulation, make sure to seal any air leaks, such as around windows and doors. This will help to keep the warm air inside and the cold air out.
3. Replace Weather Stripping
With weather stripping, you can keep cold air from streaming in beneath doors and around windows, and make sure that your heating doesn’t escape your home. Weatherstripping is inexpensive and simple to install in winterizing your home.
It can typically be found in any home improvement store, or you can order it online. Be sure to measure the circumference of the door or window openings before purchasing so you get the correct size for your specific situation.
4. Apply Foam Sealers To Outlets And Switches
Not only will applying foam sealers help to prevent cold air from entering your home, but they can also help to reduce energy costs. Applying foam sealers involves first cleaning the outlet or switch, then applying the sealer around the edges.
It is important to use high-quality products designed for use with outlets and switches. Once the sealer is in place, it should be left undisturbed for several hours to ensure a complete seal.
5. Clear the Yard
Begin by raking up any dead leaves and debris from around your yard. It’s also important to check that your gutters, downspouts, and drains are clear of debris so melting snow can drain away.
Snow removal is an important part of winter-proofing in your home. Check the trees and bushes are trimmed back to a reasonable size so snow does not accumulate.
Consider These Ways to Winter Proof Your Home
Winter proof your home. It is a great way to prevent water damage, save money on bills and ensure the comfort of everyone living inside. Crank up the insulation, find your drafts and block them, don’t forget about your HVAC and keep up with maintenance, and use weather-stripping, caulk, and sealant.
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