Winter weather can take a toll on your house (and your
heating bill) if you haven’t taken the proper steps to protect it against the
cold. There are plenty of culprits to look out for that can let cold in your
home, like storm damage, broken or missing roof shingles,
loose siding, or faulty window seals.
Enjoy this winter season knowing that your
house and wallet are shielded against the cold weather. Here are three ways you
can help protect your home from the winter elements.
1. Check your windows.
Cold air, snow, and
ice can find their way into your home through broken window sills or chipped
caulking. To figure out if your windows have a draft, run the back of your hand
along the framing of your windows. Feel for any cold breeze and listen for any
sounds of air coming through the cracks. If you come across an air leak or
broken caulking, you should repair it. Re-caulking or weatherstripping is a
sure way to keep the harsh winter elements from leaking into your home.
2. Redo your siding.
In colder climates,
solid siding is key to proper home protection and insulation throughout the season.
There are different types of siding you can choose from and each one performs
differently in winter weather. Vinyl siding is one of the more popular choices
due to its affordability and availability, whereas steel siding is an option
that can offer longevity and protection against all weather conditions.
Consider all of your options and what material will serve your home the best.
3. Repair your roof.
Your roof does the
heavy lifting when it comes to winter snow, so it’s important to make sure it’s
up to the task. Compacted snow is heavy and wet and can cause issues if the roof
isn’t prepared correctly, so make sure to check for missing or visibly curled
shingles. If you notice leaves, twigs, or other debris lodged under the
shingles, they’re likely damaged and need to be replaced. Make sure to reach
out to home improvement professionals that can help assess your roof and repair
any damages to ensure your home will withstand the winter weather.
Inspecting and
preparing your home for the winter is an essential part of home maintenance. If
you make these repairs now, it will keep your home in top shape and keep your
winter merry and bright.
Ready to winterize
your home? Get help from the pros at Final Touch Construction and Remodeling. Learn more
here.