3 Ways to Winterize Your Home In Riverside

Winter is coming. Is your home ready? Here are 3 things you can do in Riverside to prep for the season so you can relax and enjoy all the things that winter offers.

 

Drafts in your space result in higher energy costs. And even if our Riverside winter may be mild, fixing drafty areas can also keep your house cool in the summer. You can maximize your home’s insulation and lessen drafts by:

• Adding extra insulation to your attic and/or crawlspace. Talk with a professional to determine if your current insulation is sufficient.

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

• Putting in energy-efficient window treatments such as Polywood® plantation shutters with added weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate up to 70% better than a common wood shutter and repel up to 30° of airflow.

• Getting an energy audit to learn how air might be leaking out of your house and what extra steps you can take to fix it.

2. Go on the offensive against water damage

Water damage can dampen your holiday plans. Prior to when the temperature falls or a wet winter season begins, take preemptive measures to keep water flowing where it was designed to go, rather than ending up where it might damage your home. Here’s what you can do:

• Clean your gutters of blockage so that water and melted snow can flow through them. Blocked gutters can result in dams which can damage your roof or cause water to leak through your ceiling.

• Keep your pipes warm because frozen water pipes may rupture and result in major damage to your home. Depending on your climate and home, you’ll need to speak with a professional about insulating pipes next to exterior walls or even wrapping them with heat tape. Remember to keep your thermostat at at least 55 degrees at all times, especially if you’re away from home.

3. Get Professional Inspections

You need to make sure your home is running in perfect form when winter begins. Yearly check-ups of the most important systems in the home can make sure yours is safe and energy efficient.

• Ventilation and water heater. Your heating system and water heater are some of the most active energy users in your house. An HVAC and water heater inspection will make sure your systems are efficient and safe. Now is also a great time to get your water heater flushed out to prevent buildup.

• Chimney. Inspections allow you to enjoy the ambiance of your chimney without worrying about soot buildup.

Relax and Enjoy This Winter

Once your home is prepared for winter, you can enjoy everything the season offers in Riverside, from cocoa by the fireplace to parties with guests. And if you’re in the market for a stylish new look for your space this winter, drop us a line to discuss window treatments such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any room in your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Riverside at 951-517-3030 for a complimentary in-home consultation.