What is the first thing that comes to mind when you think about the winter season? Does it revolve around Christmas, holidays, or family gatherings? Or does it make you worried about high energy bills? If your answer is the latter, you are not alone. According to recent reports, around 20% of Americans struggle to pay their energy bills in winter. Unfortunately, the rising inflation is making this situation distressing for numerous households.
It is often recommended to weatherproof the house to lower energy consumption and bills during the winter months. Of course, it is no easy deal, especially when the season has already begun. That’s why it is wise to make the necessary preparations in advance. In this article, we’ll discuss three weatherproofing tips to prepare and protect your house during winter. So, let’s begin!
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Inspect Your Roof
Chilly winds and incessant rain often damage the roof and chimney pots. It leads to water leaks, damaged insulation, and even mold. Moreover, damaged roofs affect the house’s curb appeal, which you surely do not want during the festive season.
In fact, if you live in a cold and snowy city such as Philadelphia, all the tasks related to roof and chimney repair must be done before the season begins. Otherwise, the roof will get slippery and dangerous to work with. In such a situation, professional roofers in Northeast Philadelphia can assist you with necessary repairs and even replacements. They can inspect the roof for cracks, leaks, and missing shingles and repair them for you before the season begins.
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Install Storm Windows
Are your windows damaged and old? If yes, you must repair them right away. Old and broken windows affect the insulation, increasing the heating cost of the house. According to the US Department of Energy, heat gain and loss via windows account for 25 to 30% of energy consumption in residential properties. It is because the home furnace needs to run for longer hours to keep the house warm during winter, especially on snowy days.
Installing new storm windows will provide additional protection from the cold weather and boost energy efficiency. Nevertheless, make sure to repair the windows on a regular basis and close them properly during the summer.
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Cover The Air Gaps
The gaps in the front door and windows possibly let the cold air come through. To keep the heat intact, you must cover the gap using a row of bristles. It will allow the door to move freely yet restrict the heat from escaping. Another effective method to cover the air gaps would be to use self-adhesive foam around the window edges and door frames. If the door is sticking, you may also contact a carpenter to adjust its hinges.
To Sum It All Up
Even though winter is a few months away, weatherproofing your house can be a hassle in between all the festivities and gatherings. To avoid such a situation, inspecting your house’s condition and making necessary repairs on an immediate basis would be a wise and cost-effective decision.