3 Ways to Get Your Home Ready For Winter In Houston

Winter is coming. Are you ready? Here are 3 projects you can do in Houston to prep for the season so you can relax and enjoy everything that winter brings with it.

 

Drafts in your home mean higher energy bills. And even if our Houston winter is mild, servicing drafty spots can also keep your house cool come summer. You can maximize your home’s insulation and eliminate drafts by:

• Installing extra insulation to your attic and/or crawlspace. Consult with a professional to find out if your current situation is sufficient.

• Examining your doors and windows for any gaps or leaks that you find.

• Putting in energy-efficient window treatments such as Polywood® plantation shutters with built-in weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate nearly 70% more effectively than a common wood shutter and impede as much as 30° of airflow through the window.

• Getting a home audit to see 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 holiday cheer. Before the temperature drops too low or a wet winter season begins, take preventative measures to keep water where it belongs, rather than going where it might damage your home. Steps to take include:

• Clear your gutters out so that any precipitation can easily run out. Blocked gutters can lead to dams which can harm your roof or result in water leaking into your house.

• Keep your pipes toasty since frozen water pipes can burst and cause major trouble for your house. Hinging on your local weather and home, you may want to consult 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° on chilly nights, especially if you’re out and about.

3. Get Professional Inspections

You want to ensure that your house is running in perfect form when winter begins. Annual inspections of the most important systems in your house can assure that your home is safe and energy efficient.

• HVAC and water heater. Your HVAC and water heater are some of the biggest energy users in your home. An inspection will make sure your systems are efficient and safe. Before winter sets in is also a great time to have your water heater flushed out to remove buildup.

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

Enjoy This Winter

When your home is ready for winter, you can enjoy everything it has to offer in Houston, from cocoa by the fireplace to parties with family. And if you’re in the market for a stylish new look for your space this winter, contact us to discuss window coverings such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any part of your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Houston at 713-853-9629 for a free in-home consultation.