1. Know where that draft is coming from
When the temperature drops you want to make sure your house stays warm. It’s very easy for that cold air to get in so you want to make sure you identify where the drafts are coming from and deal with the problem. Rope caulk and door sweeps are both inexpensive ways to seal up loose doors and windows. Besides keeping you warm, these precautionary measures will likely save you money on that exorbitant heating bill. For even greater dollar savings over the long run, today’s energy efficient replacement windows and doors can be an excellent investment.
2. Preparing your roof
Proper roof preparation requires giving attention to both the interior and exterior of your home. If the fall season has left your roof and gutters a mess then you will want to be sure to clean them both. In addition, it wouldn’t be a bad idea to replace any aluminum flashing that may be warped or damaged. Flashing is important because it prevents water from leaking into the house.
From the inside of your house, you may want to install attic installation, and to install more vents to prevent ice-damping. Lastly be sure to inspect the ceiling for any discoloring. This could mean that you already have a leak. Make sure to contact an experienced, licensed roofer for repairs or when it’s finally time for a new roof.
3. Checking all sides of the house
It’s important to replace damaged siding on your home so that water can’t leak in. You will also want to remove any vegetation or storage items that are located on the side of the house, so that there isn’t an excessive amount of weight on the siding. In addition to keeping the water out, new sturdy vinyl siding will also help to prevent critters from getting into your home as they try to escape the winter cold.
4. Protect yourself from flooding
Windows and doors can be a perfect entrance for unwanted water during the winter season. A few ways you can ensure that your home stays dry includes installing weather stripping around doors and windows, installing a door sweeper underneath the door, and replacing all current windows and doors with hurricane proof models. In addition, it’s important to install outdoor drains so that when all that snow melts it doesn’t end up in the basement. Be sure to divert the water away from your house.
5. Keeping the money in your pocket
In this economy, people are looking for any way to save some money while still staying warm in the winter. Here are a few helpful ideas that will keep your winter bill at a minimum:
- Replace all light bulbs with energy saving CFL bulbs.
- Install a timer on your water heater so it isn’t heating a whole tank of water when you don’t need it.
- Reverse the direction of ceiling fans so that it pushes the hot air downward into the house.
- Use the oven for baking during the colder hours of the day to help heat your home. Leave the oven open a bit when done.
- Insulate your pipes to prevent them from bursting and conserve heat loss.
