7 Crucial Cold Weather Tips For Preparing Your House For Winter
Cold weather can damage your house, especially during the winter. No matter how durable it might seem, a regular house can be very vulnerable to low temperatures. Therefore, it is your job to prepare your home for winter. This requires preparation in advance, so if you’re living in an area that still hasn’t experienced winter, it means it’s time to start working. Building Contractors can be in short supply this time of year, so if you are planning more extensive renovations, start making inquiries about their availability as early as possible in the fall.
So, for that reason, here are some crucial cold weather tips that will protect your beloved home during winter.
1. Inspect your roof
Getting your roof inspected is the sure way to start preparation. First, you have to understand that this is a bit of an investment, however, it’s also one of the most important steps when it comes to your home protection. There are always minor repairs that should be done, such as replacing shingles. If you’re unable to inspect your roof by yourself, then hire a reliable contractor who will be able to look for broken shingles and other potentially problematic issues. Winter storms, as well as heavy rains, can wreak havoc on your roof which is why it’s essential to repair any damages before winter.
2. Be smart when insulating your home
Home insulation is one of the most effective ways to prevent heat or cold transfer. However, it’s also important to know your insulation materials, as that will help you make the most informed choice. For example, opting for the reflective bubble wrap material will ensure your home is warm and protected during the winter, as it has high efficiency in stopping heat transfer. Choosing a complete house insulation system will help you prepare for winter more efficiently, plus you’ll save on energy bills, which is a huge bonus.
3. Clean the gutters
The gutters should be cleaned every season, especially right before winter. If you live in an area with heavy snowfalls, then your home will have to deal with all the extra weight. And if your gutters get overburdened by all the weight, they can be pulled from your home. Failing to clean the gutters regularly can also cause water damage to your home. Since ice and snow refreeze during the night, that damage can end up being quite costly. So aside from cleaning the gutters, it’s also necessary to ensure that water has a place to go, in order to be kept away from your house.
4. Don’t forget to recaulk your windows and doors
Recaulking your doors and windows is the best method to prevent the outside cold from entering your home. Additionally, this can also prevent the heat from leaving, which is why it’s an important thing you should consider doing. It’s easy to recaulk your windows and doors: you’ll need a caulk gun and tube exterior caulk. However, make sure to caulk the outside perimeter of the door and window’s molding. Exterior silicone caulk is less affected by extreme temperatures, so it won’t shrink or expand as seasons change. Make sure to follow the instructions in order to get the job done properly.
5. Reverse the ceiling fans
Ceiling fans are popular in certain places, as they can nicely cool the place down during summer heat. Also, everyone knows that the warm air rises. So reversing the direction of your ceiling fans will cause an updraft, which will also push the heated air against the ceiling of the room. If you keep the warm air in circulation, you’ll use heat more effectively, which will also lower energy costs. You don’t need to have a room with high ceilings in order for this to work. Making the most out of the warmth inside the home will make things so much better and more efficient!
6. Trim tree branches
In case you’re lucky to have trees in your backyard, then it’s important to pay attention to tree branches prior to winter. If tree branches are angling over your roof, then you’re risking excess water seeping into cracks in your room’s sliding. Cutting the tree branches and keeping them at least 3 feet away will fix the problem. Sure, tree branches can provide nice shade during summer, but as winter approaches, they need to be dealt with in order to keep the home safe and dry.
7. Make sure to inspect the fireplace
Everyone loves using a fireplace during cold winter days. But, it’s also critical to inspect the fireplace prior to using it. Inspecting it will ensure that it works properly. A regular inspection will cover all the crucial parts such as the roof, chimney, and of course, the fireplace itself. This will also prevent problems once you start using the fireplace in the winter.
Conclusion
Living in a cold area means you’ll have to start prepping your home for winter, as soon as temperatures start to drop. These crucial tips will help you get started, so don’t forget to insulate, inspect and clean everything. You’ll feel much safer knowing that you and your home are ready for winter.