Winterizing: Part 2

Oct 30, 2019 | Home Improvement

Winterizing Your Home: Part 2

 

One of the best things about autumn is watching all the colors come to life.  Unfortunately, this also means it’s time to focus on winterizing your home.  Take advantage of the beautiful weather in Central Maryland to make some important changes around your property.  Conduct your annual home inspection—if you haven’t already—and look for opportunities to prepare for the winter weather ahead. In our last blog, we shared some tips for winterizing the outside of your house, but now it’s time to turn our attention inward. Keep your living area and loved ones protected this winter with these steps.

  1. Interior Inspection

Just like you did outside, comb your home interior for any cracks or openings. Pay close attention to pipes in the basement, kitchen, or laundry room and use expanding foam to seal gaps. If you noticed any problem areas during your exterior inspection, examine those areas closely and reinforce them as necessary. Watch for dark stains on ceilings or carpets, as they likely point to a leak or other significant issue.

In the attic, feel for drafts and look for shafts of light to find holes or cracks. Black stains on your insulation is another clear indication that you have areas to address. Repair minor roof leaks with caulking but leave more significant damage to the professionals. Speaking of, give Excel Fencing & Decking a call if you need any help! We are your local leaders in providing home repairs.  Allow our experts to manage your minor fixes and/or home remodeling projects throughout Maryland. 

  1. Attic Insulation

While you’re in the attic, make sure it’s properly insulated. Leaks, mold, and even time itself can eventually wear on insulation, making it less effective. If your attic has rolled batt insulation, it should reach at least one inch above the joists. But if you can see exposed woodwork, it might be best to add another layer. Additionally, try to return any fallen insulation to the ceiling and keep it in place with duct tape as you work on winterizing your home interior.

  1. Furnace Service

Your furnace works hard to keep you warm, so make sure it’s ready to go for the cold months ahead. Schedule a licensed technician to give it a thorough inspection and make any necessary repairs. In the meantime, replacing dirty air filters helps the furnace operate efficiently.  Even as it improves your indoor air quality.  Sometimes, winterizing simply means cleaning, so you can protect your family from dust, dirt, and other allergens. 

  1. Weatherstripping

Drafts are common problems around doors and windows, so add or replace weatherstripping to keep the cold air out. Over time, weatherstripping rips and wears out due to daily use.  If you’re feeling airflow or getting moisture accumulation even when your windows are closed, it may be time to replace them. When left unattended, damaged or missing weatherstripping not only increases your heating bill but also leads to mildew and wood rot. While inspecting your windows, check for leaks around the trim and seal gaps with caulking. Doors also require weatherstripping, although two kinds are needed. Use foam strips along the tops and sides and install door sweeps along the bottom.

Winterizing your home will keep temperatures up and electric bills down this winter. If you need help getting ready for the cold months ahead, call in the experts at Excel. Fencing and decking may be our specialties, but our highly skilled staff can also handle your home renovations and repairs.

 

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