Steps to Weatherproof Your Home

As a homeowner, making sure that your abode is properly weatherproofed should be among your top priorities. Failing to prevent outside conditions (like temperature and humidity) from affecting your life indoors, could lead to a very uncomfortable stay. Aside from that, your HVAC system won’t be running as efficiently and so, you’ll end up with bigger energy expenses.

Fortunately, weatherproofing isn’t the hardest thing to do. In fact, you only need to follow these simple steps:

• Check (and Repair) Your Windows

Windows, especially storm windows, prevent outside air from getting into your home. However, they can only do that if they’re properly installed and sealed. Check for cracks and gaps that may need quick repairs. Also, find out whether caulking is needed, as is usually the case with older windows.

• Look for Spaces Under Your Doors

Air may also get in through your doors, particularly through the bottom gap. To solve this, you have to install a door draft stopper. Most stores selling home improvement supplies offer a vast selection of door draft stoppers. However, you could always make your own (you’ll essentially be stitching together a small elongated pillow).

• Consider Purchasing New Curtains

Although curtains are often evaluated based on their design and ability to block direct sunlight, there are actually curtains specifically made to offer the best weatherproofing possible. If it’s time to replace some of your curtains, consider investing in those that offer thermal insulation. Just to be sure, look for ones that undergo laboratory testing.

• Upgrade Your Heater’s Insulation

Even something as sturdy looking as the water heater is susceptible to the effects of external temperatures, lowering its efficiency and reliability (in terms of maintaining the right temperature). If you’re having problems with heat loss, you should get a water heater blanket. Most blankets are DIY-friendly and thus, are easy enough to set up.

• Get New Insulation for Your Attic

Check your attic insulation and consider replacing it if it’s already worn. Despite this being one of the most expensive steps in weatherproofing, it will yield the most noticeable results. Improper attic insulation allows heat inside your home to escape towards the external environment, in turn adding burden to your heating system.

• Change the Paint of Your Abode

Paint isn’t just a way of adding color to a house. It’s among the key defenses against extreme heat (including UV rays) and cold. So, if you painted your home without putting much thought on which paint formulation is best given the climate, it might be necessary to repeat the entire process.

• Check Your Fireplace’s Opening

Although it does add warmth, the fireplace can also allow heat to escape. Keep the flue closed whenever the fireplace isn’t in use. If you have the budget, you could even have a balloon installed. This contraption inflates whenever there’s no fire, and deflates when smoke needs to exit the chimney.

A Most Important Endeavor

Remember that weatherproofing your home makes things more comfortable, all while allowing you to save more on your utility bills. If you haven’t given it much thought it the past, maybe it’s time to take things seriously.

Steps to Weatherproof Your Home syndicated from http://epichouseandhome.tumblr.com