Whether you like the cold or would rather sit by the fire, there’s no denying that winter can bring nasty weather with it. We wanted to cover some tips you should follow to keeping your house warm and protected for the months ahead.
Keeping Warm
If you don’t want to break the bank, be sure to utilize all your options. Some things to keep in mind include moving furniture away from radiators, opening the blinds while the sun is shining, and pulling out all the blankets you have tucked away. Try these tips in all rooms to really see a difference without spending a penny.
More importantly, finding drafts is key to preventing cold air from drifting in. Some of the most common areas you’ll find a draft include windows, doors, attics, and even wall outlets! To find a draft, use your hand to feel the cold air, or even a lit candle to see if the flame is blown out. Some of the easiest ways to cover a draft is by using caulk or weather strips.
Preventing Home Damage
One of the most common home problems in the winter is frozen pipes, which can end up costing hundreds of dollars in damages. The easiest way to keep them from freezing is by raising the temperature on your thermostat, at least 55° F or more (the higher the better). Other options to prevent freezing include closing off outdoor valves that lead to the interior of your home, opening cabinet doors for air circulation, and keeping windows and doors fully shut.
Another problem many homeowners face are ice dams which form on the roof. Ice dams are formed by snow and ice solidifying around your gutters, which may result in backed up water. This can induce roof leakage, mold buildup, and other issues that can get out of hand fast. For a short term solution, using a roof rake can help clear off snow and ice to allow water flow. For a long term solution, increasing ventilation and insulation in the attic can help increase temperatures to prevent ice.
If your home has been affected by winter weather, can your insurance policy cover it? Contact us if you have any questions regarding a homeowner’s policy or similar insurance. We recommend checking out some of our other blogs which cover driving in the winter, protecting yourself online, and more!