(ARA) – Many homeowners expect their heating costs to rise as cold weather creeps around the corner. Contrary to popular belief, there are ways to keep your energy costs (and your thermostat) low during the winter.
“In colder climates, it’s important for homeowners to keep their residences warm and energy bills low by weatherizing,” says Vageesh Bakhshi, category manager at ShurTech Brands, LLC. “The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency estimates that homeowners can usually save up to 20 percent of heating and cooling costs by properly sealing their homes. Weatherizing is a simple and affordable DIY project that can be completed in just one day, or even a weekend.”
Weatherizing your house from top to bottom can help keep your family warm and toasty while saving money. Don’t be left in the cold – learn ways to properly prepare your home for whatever weather this winter may bring.
Protect your home from the attic cold
The attic is often overlooked as a source of energy loss. Although insulated, the attic is a “big hole,” especially the attic stairway opening, which can allow cold air to enter the home, forcing you to turn up your heat. Combat the cold with an Attic Stairway Cover from Duck brand – they’re flexible and lightweight, easy to install and help prevent cold drafts from seeping into your home through the attic stairway opening. Repositionable for easy attic access, Duck brand Attic Stairway Covers are a must-have for the cold winter months, and can even help save energy all year round.
Combat the cold by sealing holes
Nooks and crannies are perfect for storing clothes and keepsakes, but they’re also where you occasionally find thinning wall insulation and holes, which are the main culprits of escaping heat – and dollars. To ensure your home is well-protected, cover and seal holes with a spray foam or foam board to block cold air. Also make sure to check all plumbing, ducts and electrical wiring areas that penetrate through walls, floors, ceilings and soffits over cabinets. These areas are likely to have air leaks that can be easily caulked to block any potential air infiltration.
Winterize windows for added warmth
To keep your home warm and comfortable, it’s important to cover all your bases, and windows are no exception. Casements are a prime location for heat to seep out and cold to creep in, so keep your house warm and draft-free by weatherizing windows with products like Duck brand Roll-On Window Kits. Made of a clear shrink film, these window kits provide an added barrier between the winter chill and your home, and come with a pre-taped edge for easy installation. Once spring arrives, simply peel the film from your windows and discard.
Fight strong winds with a storm door
When old man winter comes knocking, block his entrance with a storm door. These durable doors are installed in front of the home’s access doors to protect against harsh weather, keeping your family warm and cozy. Storm doors increase the insulation of entrances by lowering the amount of air transferred with each entry and exit. When aligned well with the architecture of the home, they can add instant beauty and protection, while helping make your energy bill more appealing, too.
By following these weatherization tips, you can rest assured that your home’s interior will be a little more protected from frightfully cold conditions.
