When the temperatures drop, it's tempting to cozy up indoors and check off your to-do list – but winter is not the time to ignore the parts of your home that need a little extra attention. To enjoy the season without the hassle of unexpected home repairs, it's best to tackle a few routine inspections now to prevent future problems. The good news is that HGTV star Mike Holmes is here to keep you informed with expert advice. In a recent blog post, he shared the areas that are important to check before the season begins: exterior maintenance, waterproofing and attic insulation.
Knowing how to prepare your home for cold weather is an important step in protecting your property and staying comfortable in your home during the winter months. Simple tasks, from checking your roof to inspecting your attic, can help you avoid costly damage and ensure a safe, warm space this season. By following Mike Holmes' advice in advance, you can winterize your home and avoid seasonal headaches.
Protect the outside of your home from the onset of winter
Preparing the outside of your home for winter is important to stay warm and avoid costly repairs. On the HGTV blog, Mike Holmes shared his top tips for pre-winter home inspections, with his top recommendation being to check the roof. There are many smart tips for winterizing your roof, but it all starts with a thorough inspection. Before the snow arrives, check your shingles for warning signs such as missing pieces, kinks, or waves. While you're inspecting the roof, check the deck for any damage that could cause future problems the first time snow falls. The roof is your home's first line of defense against harsh weather. Therefore, it is important to tackle the repairs as quickly as possible.
Another important part of exterior care is checking for cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and vents. Holmes recommends using weatherstripping and weatherstripping to seal any areas where cold air could enter and checking for any existing damage to your current caulk. If you notice areas where the caulk is worn, consider replacing it before temperatures begin to drop. This way you stay warm inside and save on additional heating costs at the same time.
Increase your attic insulation for a warmer winter
One of the best ways to ensure your home stays warm and energy efficient in the winter is to make sure your attic insulation is in good condition. This insulation essentially provides a barrier between your home and the outside world, so reinforcing it gives you peace of mind that you won't lose any heat that could escape through gaps. In the HGTV blog post, Mike Holmes emphasizes the importance of upgrading your attic's insulation before the colder months begin, and suggests adding a foot or more of blown-in insulation to ensure you have enough coverage. Installing a vapor barrier can also help seal the attic from the rest of the house, while good ventilation allows moisture to escape and prevents potential damage.
It's also helpful to consider signs that your home's insulation needs to be replaced, such as: E.g. fluctuating temperatures throughout the home or visible damage to the insulation since the last inspection. Addressing these issues now will help you improve your home's thermal and energy efficiency as temperatures drop. By taking these steps, you will create a more comfortable and well-protected home that can handle the challenges of the coming winter months.