Tips to Weatherproof your Home
As winter approaches and the rain clouds gather, weatherproofing your home can prevent damage to your property and retain much-needed warmth. Take simple and preemptive steps to guard your home against unpredictable weather conditions, and keep the cold air and rain out with these tips to weatherproof your home.
Sealing your windows and doors will minimise the cold air seeping in, helping your home feel warmer and cosier this winter. Start by inspecting your existing doors and windows to ensure they are in good condition and check your door frame or window pane for any spots that may be leaking out air. Don’t forget to look for holes in the floor that may have been used to feed through cables or wires.
TIP: For a quick way to identify potential leaks, move a candle around the frame of your door or window and keep an eye out for any flickers that may signal a draft.
If you come across any blank spots, there are a few different ways you can seal drafts. Caulking can close the seams between pipes by wedging material between boards to create a watertight seal. Weatherstripping is another common solution to leaking air and works by filling in empty spaces with expanding foam or felt strips and blocking incoming cold air. Expanding foam works effectively in cracks or gaps and also provides a natural air barrier, further insulating your home. Before applying any weather stripping, measure the size of your frame and add some extra margin in case of any errors.
TIP: Always check that your door can still close easily with the stripping in place. When the door is shut, the stripping should be tightly compressed, to prevent any air passing through. A neglected area of the home is often the garage- but stripping the doors and windows of your garage can make a huge difference in your home.
In preparation for the winter, you might consider installing a storm door or window to retain heat. Storm windows and doors are fastened in front of an existing door to add an extra barrier against the wind and are typically made from wood, aluminium or fiberglass. When the warmer seasons return, replace your storm windows with screens for a lighter barrier.
TIP: For an inexpensive option, tape a clear plastic sheet on the inside of your window frame to reduce air penetration or add insulating drapery across your windows. Heavy curtains will also prevent heat escaping your home, saving you from expensive electricity bills in the long run or attach door sweepers or draft guards on your door to keep the cool air out.
Water expands in lower temperatures and to prevent damage to your pipes this winter, wrap any exposed pipes with insulating tape to reduce energy usage, maximise heat flow, prevent leaks, cracks and mold. Repair any dripping taps before the winter chill settles in and keep the plug in your sink to ensure the water in your pipes do not freeze in the cooler temperatures.
Before the colder months settle in, a little extra garden preparation can go a long way. Rake up the fallen leaves that have accumulated during the autumn, trim overhanging branches and fertilise your grass to give your garden the best chance during the winter. It’s also a great investment to spend your spare time removing your weeds to aerate your lawn. If you prefer a professional to do the job, request free quotes from your local gardeners here.
Don’t let the winter chill inhibit you from enjoying your outdoor space. Make use of your patio or backyard space with patio heaters or table top heaters, perfect for entertaining outdoors. Chimineas or an outdoor fireplace can provide warmth and add decorative style to your outdoor space.
Prepare for the colder months ahead with our simple tips to weatherproof your home against rain, hail or shine. For extra help you can always: