How to Winter Proof Your Home

Winter is certainly an uncomfortable time of year for all of us, as temperatures drop and everyone starts wanting to spend more time indoors.  Unfortunately, many homes end up with significant electric bill increases this time of year.  Taking the time to winter-proof your home is essential to staying warm without breaking the bank.  Today we will look at five tips to help you winter-proof your home.

Tip #1:

One thing you will certainly want to do when you winter-proof your home is to close all of your windows.  This simple step can provide considerable added warmth.  If the inside air feels stuffy, try limiting the amount of time you keep windows open as most people tend to forget to shut windows after opening them. Close storm windows too if you have them.

Tip #2:

If air leakage through older windows is a problem or if you don’t have storm windows, try using sealing foam below the window as you lock it into place.  The foam is thick and forms a solid barrier against wind beneath your window.

Tip #3:

Shrinking heat seal can also be placed over each window.  It adheres using double sided tape and shrinks to form an airtight bond using just the heat from a blow dryer.  If you do this right you’ll get an extra layer of insulation, as well as helping to seal cracks in old window putty.

Tip #4:

Foam strips for your doors can also help you save money and energy when you winter-proof.  These strips go below each door and work more effectively than draft dodgers to keep air from coming in.

Tip #5:

Adding foam behind the face plates on your electrical sockets is a great way to reduce power usage and winter-proof your space as well.  You might find yourself surprised to learn just how much cold air comes in through your outlets each winter.

Tip #6:

Don’t forget your roof.  Taking the time to insulate your attic can pay off handsomely in the long run. As up to 60% of the heat you pump into your house escapes through the roof, if you add a layer or two of insulation to your attic floor or roof you’ll find you stay much warmer for half the cost.

Taking the time to winter-proof is always worthwhile and can save you a small fortune this season – try the tips above and hopefully your next winter heating bill will be a nice surprise.