Winter in New England can bring along a lot of complications and added stress to our everyday lives, but by being prepared, you will at least be ready for the snow, ice, and cold weather. No one really wants to start thinking about the harsh weather that may be right around the corner, but it is coming whether we like it or not. These extreme conditions can really take a toll on your home if you aren’t prepared for it.
Here are some tips that you can use to help ensure your home survives winter weather:
Insulate your windows
Insulating your windows will not only keep your house warm and cozy, but it will also save you money on your energy bill. Cold air drafting through your windows means your heat has to work extra hard to keep up. According to the U.S. Energy Department, reducing the draft from your windows can lower your energy bill by up to 20% per year. You can insulate your windows on your own using V-seal weather stripping, and it will cost less than $10 to do.
Inspect the roof
A leaky roof is much easier to fix when it isn’t below freezing, and there isn’t a foot of snow on the ground. Don’t wait to find out your roof is leaky after the first snow. Walk around your home and look for:
- Broken or missing shingles
- Any sign of moss, which usually means the roof is rotting underneath
- Cracked caulk or any rust spots
By inspecting your roof a few times a year, you can stay ahead of any significant issues. If you catch them early, they can be fixed before any severe damage is caused.
Clean out your gutter
After all of the leaves fall, it is smart to clear out your gutters because trapped water will soon turn into ice, which can cause damage that is very expensive to repair. Replacing any worn or damaged materials can help protect your home and help ensure that your gutter system works properly.
Trim tree branches
It is always wise to keep the tree branches surrounding your home trimmed so that if a storm rolls through, you can avoid damage to your home and your property. Cutting back your tree branches also makes it so less water can leak into your home from melting snow and ice. Keeping tree limbs and branches at least three feet away from your home will help keep your home protected through every winter storm.
These simple tips will help save you a lot of stress over the next few months, and your home will be ready for whatever this winter has in store.
