Living in a seasonal climate comes with its fair share of benefits and setbacks, especially when it comes to your home. As seasons change, your home can become vulnerable to a wide variety of obstacles, from something minor like unwelcomed drafts all the way up to freezing pipes.
During the winter, our homes are at their most vulnerable. If you’re used to living in snowy conditions and icy roads, you’re no stranger to the challenges this type of weather brings. The good news is that winter doesn’t have to cause unnecessary stress and overwhelm — there are plenty of things you can do to protect your home, inside and out.
Here’s what you need to know.
Sealing Windows & Doors
The windows and doors in your home, if left unchecked, can easily allow unwanted drafts, allergens, and even harmful toxins into the house — this is especially important for homeowners living in older homes. When temperatures drop, the last thing you want is to feel a cold breeze indoors. That’s when it becomes imperative to inspect your doors and windows for any cracks or damages.
In some cases, you can reseal cracks yourself, while more serious issues may require a professional window installation company to replace the unit entirely. The benefit of new windows and doors is the peace of mind knowing each unit has been correctly installed and will last in your home for years to come — no matter what the weather has in store.
Roof Repairs
Bit-ticket items like roofs often go overlooked or pushed aside, primarily due to the time and cost it takes to repair or replace. While these are valid points, the winter weather won’t show any sympathy. If your roof needs any maintenance, the best time is in the months before this weather sets in. Look for loose screws, rusted panels, and any sections where there are cracked, bent, or even missing shingles. Ensuring your roof is safe and secure eliminates the possibility of any indoor leaks and can help keep wildlife from entering your home.
Protecting Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are the last thing you want or need, which is why protecting this part of your home’s structure is vital. Unheated rooms in your home, including basements, attics, and garages, are at risk for freezing if left unattended.
The solution is to use pipe insulation extensively around any exposed pipes in these vulnerable areas. Additionally, keep your garage closed as much as possible to ensure your house’s temperature doesn’t drop significantly.
Learn to Save Energy
If you live in a seasonal area, you’ve likely seen your energy bill increase during the excessive heat of the summer and the freezing winter temperatures. Before the snow begins to fall and temperatures drop, this is the perfect time to evaluate how you’re using energy and where you can afford to save money.
Programmable thermostats are a simple and effective way to keep your energy costs at a minimum, often saving upwards of eight percent annually. With smart technology, you can customize your home’s temperatures to your preference and ensure they’re not running as high when you’re not home.
Try these tips this season and prepare your home for this year’s winter season.
Follow Allhometips for more!
