Winterize Your Home: Insider Tips from Inside Out Solutions

With cold weather already here, it's time to chat about something we all hold dear: keeping your home snug and secure during these frosty winter months. Let’s break down some simple yet effective steps to help winter-proof your home, ensuring it stays as warm and inviting as your favorite hot cup of cocoa!

1. Seal the Deal

First things first, let’s talk about drafts. All of those pesky cold breezes sneaking in around your doors and windows? Don’t let is pass anymore! Sealing up cracks and gaps in windows and doors is key. A little caulk or weather stripping goes a long way in keeping the warmth in and the cold out. One little piece of foam added to your gapping doorway could affect your entryway by degrees! It's a quick fix that can make a world of difference.

2. Gutters and Roofs: Your First Line of Defense

While this should already be done by the time snow hits, it might not be too late. Before the snow really starts to pile up, give your gutters and roof some attention before it truly is too late. Clear out the leaves and debris from your gutters to prevent ice dams – trust us, you don’t want to deal with ice dams! And while you’re at it, a quick check of the roof for any missing or damaged shingles can save you a headache later.

3. Insulation is Your Friend

If your attic isn’t properly insulated, you’re basically doing your neighbors a favor by heating up the atmosphere for them. Adding extra insulation up in your attic where it’s needed can keep your home more cozy and your heating bills down. It's like a winter hat for your house!

4. Pipe Prep

Frozen pipes can be a disaster! While building standards are supposed to be higher these days, it doesn’t mean that things are perfect and things aren’t missed. Insulate your pipes in any suspiciously cold areas, especially in unheated areas like basements and garages if you have any areas matching that description. If you have had issues in the past and are worried, keep a faucet dripping slightly to prevent freezing on chilly nights. A small trickle can prevent a big problem.

5. Heating System Check-Up

Nothing is worse than a furnace that decides to take a vacation in the dead of winter! Make sure you are routinely taking care of your system by regularly changing your furnace filter. New furnace filters really do make a difference in a very expensive investment! If you’re able to, get your heating system checked by a professional to ensure it’s in top performing condition. Regular maintenance can be a game-changer.

6. Emergency Kit

Last but not least, have an emergency kit ready. No one plans an emergency, it’s an emergency because it’s not planned. Reversing that situation and being prepared for an emergency can drastically reduce the likelihood of a catastrophe. Power outages can happen, and being prepared with flashlights, batteries, blankets, and some non-perishable food and water can make all the difference. Get prepared with the basics. Your family and pets are depending on you!

A little bit of preparation can ensure your home stays warm, safe, and efficient all winter long. Stay warm this year!