The winter months can be difficult for homeowners, especially when keeping your home in good shape. The weather can take a toll on the external parts of our homes, while the cold temperatures inside can create issues with energy efficiency. To help you maintain your home during these colder months, here are four tips to help keep your house in excellent condition through the winter and beyond.
1. Insulation
One of the most important things you should do to ensure that your home stays warm and energy efficient is to check the insulation in your walls and attic. If cracks or holes exist in the insulation, fill them with expanding foam or caulk. This will help keep heat inside and prevent drafts from coming in. You should insulate any pipes that lead outside to prevent them from freezing in extreme temperatures.
Adding insulation to your attic is especially important if it’s not already installed. Insulating the attic will help regulate temperatures inside and make it much easier to heat or cool the home. Properly insulating an attic can reduce energy bills by as much as 20%. The most common types of insulation are fiberglass batts, spray foam, and cellulose. Each type has its benefits and drawbacks, so be sure to explore your options before making a decision.
When insulating a wall, it is crucial to ensure the vapor barrier lines up correctly on the inside of the wall cavity and that no gaps are present. Additionally, you should use insulation with the highest R-value for your wall insulation. This will help keep the heat inside and reduce sound transmission from outside. When calculating the total R-value for multiple layers of insulation, using an additive value system is essential, as this will give you the most accurate calculation.
2. Roof Maintenance
Your roof is one of the essential parts of your home, and it needs to be adequately taken care of throughout the winter months. Check for damaged or missing shingles and replace them when necessary. Also, remove any leaves or debris that may have accumulated on your roof, as this can cause water damage over time. If you have a flat roof, consider having it inspected by a professional at least once a year, as they are more prone to leaking than sloped roofs.
One of the most important things you can do is to keep your gutters clean and free from debris. This will help prevent water from pooling on top of your roof and causing damage and reduce the risk of freezing during winter months. In addition, checking for any loose or missing flashing around chimneys, vents, or skylights will help minimize the risk of water intrusion.
Finally, consider investing in a high-quality asphalt shingle roofing system when replacing your roof. Asphalt shingles are durable and cost-effective, providing great value for money over their lifetime. They also come with various warranties to ensure your investment is protected. Additionally, investing in a quality roofing system can help increase the resale value of your home and provide an excellent return on investment.
3. Windows Maintenance
The cold air outside can cause drafts in your windows if they aren’t adequately sealed. Check to ensure that all of your window seals are tight and free of cracks or holes. If not, seal them with caulk or weatherstripping as soon as possible to keep the warm air inside. Additionally, check for any broken panes of glass in your windows, as these can be a significant source of energy loss.
It is also important to clean your windows regularly. This will help you maintain good visibility and prevent the buildup of dirt, dust, and debris from interfering with the functioning of your windows. If you struggle with accessing higher windows or cannot reach all the crevices in a window frame, consider hiring a window cleaning service for assistance. A professional window cleansing service will be able to provide thorough and safe cleaning for your windows. They have the right tools and experience to get the job done promptly, so you don’t have to worry about putting yourself at risk by cleaning difficult-to-reach areas of your windows.
Be sure to look for signs of corrosion while you’re cleaning windows too. Corrosion can cause damage that makes it hard for windows to open and close, leading you to have to make costly repairs. You can remove small amounts of corrosion by using a solution of vinegar and water. Just spray the mixture onto the corroded areas and scrub with a soft brush until it’s completely gone. It’s also a good idea to apply a coat of sealant after cleaning to protect your windows from further rusting.
4. Furnace
The furnace is one of the most essential appliances in your home during winter. To ensure that it runs efficiently and safely, have it cleaned and inspected by a professional at least once a year. This will allow them to catch any potential issues before they become more significant problems down the line. Additionally, change out the air filters regularly so that your furnace doesn’t have to work harder than necessary to heat your home.
Consider installing a programmable thermostat connected to your furnace to increase efficiency and save money. This will allow you to set the temperature at different times of the day so that it runs less when no one is at home, saving you energy and bills. Additionally, look into potential government incentives or grants for replacing your old furnace with an energy-efficient model; this could save you hundreds of dollars over time.
You should also be aware of the warning signs that your furnace needs repair or replacement, such as reduced airflow, strange noises coming from the machine, and uneven heating throughout your home. Contact a licensed technician to determine the best course of action if encountering any of these issues.
In Summary
Following these four tips for maintaining your home during the winter months, you can help ensure that your house remains safe and comfortable throughout this season and beyond. From checking your insulation to cleaning your furnace, these steps can help keep your home in great condition and prevent any costly repairs later. Doing regular maintenance throughout the year is key to keeping your house in optimal shape and avoiding any major issues down the line.
