This time of year usually means hot cocoa, sledding and lots of carbs. For home owners it can also mean a huge heating bill, burst pipes, fallen branches and an overworked furnace. If just thinking about winterizing your home sends a chill down your spine, don’t fret! Whether you're a longtime home owner or this is your first winter in your new home, here are some simple tips to prevent house-related headaches this holiday season.
1. Keep the Heat In
One of the most common issues that rears its head this time of year is the lack of adequate insulation as well as drafty windows and doors. On a cold day, run your hands along the edges of your windows. Feel a draft? Add weatherstripping or recaulk any gaps on the exterior. It’s a low-cost fix that can pay for itself in a single heating season.
Keeping your attic top of mind can save you money. Heat rises. If your attic isn’t properly insulated, you’re literally paying to heat the outdoors. Consider adding insulation or sealing gaps around light fixtures and vents. Improving insulation and air sealing is one of the rare upgrades that can pay you back twice with lower utility bills and better resale appeal when it’s time to sell.
2. Protect Your Pipes
Burst pipes are one of the most damaging surprises that a homeowner can face. They are also one of the most preventable.Pipes that run through unheated areas (garages, crawl spaces, basements) should be wrapped with simple foam insulation sleeves. You should also disconnect all garden hoses and drain the spigots. If you skip this step, trapped water can freeze, expand, and crack the pipe inside the wall. Lastly, make sure you take a minute to find your main water shut-off valve now. If a pipe does burst, you’ll want to be able to turn the water off in seconds, not minutes.
3. Danger From Above
Make sure to clear your gutters of leaves before major snow fall if possible. If the gutters are clogged, melted snow can refreeze forming an ice dam which can expand under your shingles leading to water in your ceiling. Trimming overhanging branches before they are heavy with snow is another way to prevent what could be a major headache. No one wants a rogue branch crashing their holiday get together, let alone the bill that comes with it.
The Cold Hard Facts
Winterizing isn’t just about staying cozy—it’s about protecting your home’s value. A well-maintained home lasts longer, is more comfortable, saves you money on your energy bill and tends to sell faster and for more money when you’re ready to move .If you’d like a second set of eyes on your home’s winter readiness or you need referrals for trusted local professionals, reach out anytime. I’m always happy to connect you with reliable HVAC techs, roofers, and handy people I trust. Stay warm and stay safe this winter!
-By: Akeem Harper
