Climate change’s effects on the world’s weather have been noticeable in the past few years. Hotter summers and forest fires are just one aspect of it. What can be worse is the harsher winters. A sweltering summer is survivable, but if you are not ready for a bad winter, then you are putting yourself and your loved ones in danger. Here are some good preparations that will ensure that you will be safe and warm during any harsh winter.
Install Proper Insulation
One of the essential preparations for a harsh winter is good insulation. For one, it is a good investment. The cost of insulation is worth the effect that it has on your home. It keeps the heat in while keeping the cold out. Additionally, it doesn’t cost anything more to maintain. No need to pay for it to activate. Considering that it can last for years as long as it doesn’t get damaged, the insulation should help a lot.
However, you need to know what to insulate. While putting it in every wall is a good move, it is also very inefficient. Insulating your attic is a better move since 30 to 35 percent of heat loss is from the roof. Besides that, you will also want to insulate your pipes so that they won’t burst during the winter because of freezing.
Clean The Right Places
It might not seem like it, but some good cleaning is necessary for you to have a good winter. For one, clogged gutters are very damaging. With water freezing in them because of the clog, they can easily get damaged. It is important that before winter sets in that you clean them out. It would be even better if you installed anti-clogging covers over the gutters. Besides the gutters, you should also clean the vents and chimneys so that they are at their best during the winter.
Do Some Caulking And Sealing
A draft or a leak can quickly become a problem during the middle of winter. You must remove all the chances of this by caulking any drafty windows and weatherstripping the doors. This seals the gaps so that melted snow will not come in and minimize energy loss by five to ten percent. What is even more important is to find any holes in the house exterior or leaks in your roof. These can get worse over the winter, so repairing them before it snows is important.
Ensure Pests Remain Out
Another big problem is pests. The cold will force rodents and insects to look for a place to shelter themselves. Your home is a prime target. Rodents are the big problem since they can dig around and make nests in the walls, which will damage the insulation. Fixing all the holes in your house exterior can help with that. Another measure that will prevent pests is to keep food in secure containers. Pests are attracted to them and can eat them if you are not careful.
Get Some Professional Help
Keeping your home in good condition during the winter months is not going to be easy on your own. Some of it requires professional maintenance. For example, your furnace will need a professional HVAC technician checking it and tuning it up. They have the experience to identify and faults and ensure they are fixed. Besides that, some professionals have the necessary tools that you don’t.
Commercial and residential snow removal services have large snow plows that can clear out heavy snowfall without breaking a sweat. Find the right experts in your area and work with them to get the best results.
Have An Emergency Kit
While it is not a good idea to travel during severe winter weather, you might have to do so in case of an emergency. Having an emergency kit in your car ensures that you will be able to travel safely. Even if you are not traveling, the supplies might also be convenient during a nasty winter storm.
Pack extra water and food packed, as well as emergency lights and a radio. There should also be items that will help keep you warm, like extra coats, mittens, and blankets. Some first aid items would also be a good idea.
A harsh winter can be devastating to your house and property. If you are not careful, you’ll be paying thousands of dollars in repairs. The preparations above should also help ensure that you and your loved ones will be safe and warm during the winter months.
