With winter approaching and temperatures dropping, it’s important to take the right steps to winterize your house. Winterizing your home can help you save money on your energy bills and protect your house from damage due to heavy snowfall and cold temperatures. Depending on where you live, the process of winterizing your house can vary but it’s typically best to do in late fall. Here are 5 tips on how you can prepare your house for the cold weather season!
1. Clean and Clear Gutters
· During the fall, leaves and other debris can clog your gutters, which could lead to flooding or water leaking into the foundation. This is why it’s crucial to clear your gutters before winter or snowfall in order to prevent damage.
· Tip: Consider installing a gutter guard to help save time and energy clearing out your gutters this season.
2. Weather-proof Windows, Doors & Siding
· Installing the proper weather stripping can keep your house warm, which can save you money on your energy bill. You can apply weather stripping to your windows, doors and holes in the siding to seal the gaps and keep the cold temperatures out! There are many different types of weather stripping, so it’s important to do your research on what option is best suited for your home.
3. Winter Pipe Maintenance
· To protect your sprinkler system, it’s important to blow out your lines to prevent the pipes from freezing and bursting the pipes. Remember to not exceed 50 PSI on your air compressor when blowing out your sprinklers.
· Disconnect your garden hose and make sure the faucet is completely turned off. Leaving your hose connected to the spigot could result in water freezing, which can damage the pipe and faucet.
· It can be tempting to lower your thermostat to save money when you’re not home for an extended period time. Remember to keep your house heated to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit to prevent your pipes from freezing.
4. Prepare Patio and Deck
· Some outdoor furniture isn’t equipped for harsh weather so you should properly store indoors. Also considering storing any patio furniture, such as pillows and seat cushions that are light weight, inside to prevent damage from the wind.
· If you have a wood deck, consider applying a water-proof sealant to properly protect your deck.
5. Get Your Snow Removal Equipment Ready
· If you have a snowblower, make sure you fill it with gas before the snow comes.
· Make sure your shovels and other snow tools are easily accessible.
· Consider buying salt or sand to help with icy conditions.
The proper winterization of you home may vary based on the individual needs of your home. If you have any questions, feel free to reach out to professional at Jenack Construction to learn more about winterizing your home.