It’s the start of winter and freezing temperatures are here to stay for the foreseeable future. There’s still time to winterize your home and prepare for frigid temperatures before they arrive.
Prepare Plumbing.
A burst frozen pipe is something no homeowner or landlord wants to deal with. Start by draining outdoor hoses and shutting the water off to exterior faucets. Exterior faucet covers, available at Southside, reduce the risk of freezing pipes. You’ll also want to ensure that you insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and attics.
Seal Air Leaks.
Air leaks can significantly increase your heating costs by allowing warm air to escape and cold air to enter. Sealing these gaps is an easy way to improve your home’s energy efficiency. You can start by inspecting windows and doors for any drafts. A good rule of thumb is if you can pull a dollar pill through a closed window, you may need to seal it up.
Start by using weatherstripping our caulk to close any gaps and keep the cold air out. You’ll want to check for cracks around electrical outlets and the attic doors, too.
Install New Energy Efficient Windows.
When your windows are drafty, broken, or they won’t open and shut properly, it may be time to replace them. Southside Building Center stocks an amazing assortment of vinyl replacement windows from Moss Supply Co. You’ll find 12 popular sizes of replacement windows and custom orders are available, too.
Inspect Your Roof.
Heavy snow can damage your roof and gutters, leading to leaks and structural issues. Check for loose or damaged shingles and repair as needed. Install gutter guards to avoid debris build up in your gutters.
Test Your Safety Devices.
Anytime you’re using a gas or propane heating device, you should have properly installed Carbon Monoxide and smoke detectors. If you have these already installed, winter is a great time to test them and replace the batteries, too.
This winter, stop by Southside Building Center for everything you need to protect your home for the season!