3 Ways to Prepare Your Home For Winter In Philadelphia

Winter is coming. Is your home ready? Here are 3 things you can do in Philadelphia to prep for the coming season so you can enjoy everything that winter has to offer.

 

Drafts in your space result in higher energy costs. And even if our Philadelphia winter may be mild, fixing drafty rooms can also make sure your home stays cool during the summer. You can maximize your home’s insulation and reduce drafts by:

• Putting in extra insulation to your home’s extremities. Speak with a professional to learn if your current insulation is up to snuff.

• Checking your windows and doors for air moving through any gaps that you find.

• Putting in energy-efficient window treatments like Polywood® plantation shutters with integrated weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate up to 70% more effectively than a normal wood shutter and repel close to 30° of airflow.

• Getting a home audit to learn how air may be leaking out of your home and what you can do to fix it.

2. Protect against water damage

Water damage can dampen your winter cheer. Before the temperature falls or the wet season starts, take preventative measures to keep water moving where it should, rather than ending up where it might damage your home. Steps to take include:

• Clean your gutters of any leaves or debris so that water and melted snow can easily run out. Obstructed gutters can lead to dams which can harm your roof or result in water leaking through your ceiling.

• Keep your pipes heated since frozen water pipes may rupture and result in major trouble for your house. Hinging on your local weather and home, you may want to talk to a professional about insulating pipes next to exterior walls or even wrapping heat tape around them. Remember to keep your thermostat at at least 55° at night, especially if you’re out of town.

3. Get Your Home Inspected

When winter comes, you want to ensure that your house is running in perfect shape. Annual checks of the most important systems in the home can make sure your home is safe and energy efficient.

• Ventilation and water heater. Your heating system and water heater are two of the most notable energy users in your home. An HVAC and water heater inspection will protect your home from any mishap or inefficiency. Before winter sets in is also an ideal time to get your water heater flushed out to prevent blockage.

• Chimney. Inspections let you make use of the ambiance of your chimney while being confident that your chimney is safe to run.

Relax and Enjoy This Winter

Once your house is ready for winter, you can enjoy all it has to offer in Philadelphia, from a coffee by the fireplace to gatherings with guests. And if you’re in the mood for a stylish new look for your home this winter, contact us to discuss window coverings such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any room in your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Philadelphia at 215-874-4897 for a free in-home consultation.