Now that colder weather has arrived, it’s important to make sure your home is ready for winter. This includes making necessary repairs and upgrades to help your home withstand harsh weather conditions. Here are seven winter home improvement tips to help you get started.
Winter Home Improvement
1. Inspect the Roof and Gutters for Damage
If your roof or gutters have sustained any damage, make repairs ahead of severe weather. Heavy snow and ice can cause problems because the gutters cannot move rain and snowmelt away from the house. Winter weather can worsen roofing problems. Hire a roofing contractor to replace any missing or damaged shingles before winter storms arrive.
2. Add Insulation as Part of Your Winter Home Improvements
Good insulation is necessary to maintain a comfortable temperature inside your home. Over time, insulation may shift or be damaged by water or pests. Add insulation to your attic and basement. This is a great way to keep your home warmer during the winter months and it will also help reduce your energy bills.
3. Install a Programmable Thermostat
A programmable thermostat can save a homeowner up to $180 a year. They’re easy to install and allow you to adjust your home’s temperature from anywhere using your smartphone or laptop. You can even set them to automatically turn down the heat while you’re at work or away on vacation, which will help lower energy bills since you’re not paying to heat an empty home.
4. Seal Cracks Around Windows and Doors
Sealing gaps and cracks around the doors and windows will reduce drafts and keep the home warmer. Check the weatherstripping that is currently in place. Over time, it may have become cracked and less effective. Remove the old product and replace it to better insulate windows and doors.
5. Invest in a Good Snow Shovel
A sturdy snow shovel will make clearing the snow from your property a lot easier. Find one that is the right size for you and has a comfortable grip. A shovel that is too heavy or too small makes the job more difficult and time-consuming than it has to be.
6. Winter Home Improvement: Clean the Chimney
Cleaning out the fireplace and chimney will make it safer to use as supplemental heat during the winter months. Hire a professional chimney sweep who can make quick work of the job.
7. Take Care of the Landscaping
When it comes to winterizing your home, don’t neglect the landscaping. It’s just as important as repairs and upgrades on the inside of your property.
Add a layer of mulch to protect perennial flower beds and young trees. Before the first snow hits, clear debris from your yard. Prune tree branches that are overhanging the roof and the driveway so they won’t cause damage during a winter storm. Clean the patio furniture and make sure it is safely stored away or covered for the season.
By following these tips, you will get your home ready for the colder months ahead.
JW Goad Home Inspections provides home inspection services in Clarksville, TN, and the surrounding areas. If you’re buying or selling a home, contact us to request an appointment.