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Last Updated: Jul 2nd, 2008 - 21:15:22 |
(ARA) - With cooler temperatures and shorter days looming on the horizon, it’s time to get started on those projects to winterize your home. Home winterization is often overlooked, yet it is very important for the upkeep of your house. Fall is the perfect time for these projects, and there are many things you can do now to ready your home for the many cold months ahead.
First of all, look around your home and take note of anything that needs attention. It is likely that you will notice some holes in your drywall where cold air is entering your home and warm air is escaping. Mending drywall is a perfect project to complete in the early part of fall, before harsh winter temperatures set in. Repairing these unsightly holes will reduce energy bills throughout the year while preventing pest infestation.
This project can be completed in a short amount of time by simply removing sections of damaged drywall and replacing them with new pieces. Using a combination of drywall screws and construction adhesive, such as Ultra Quik Grip from the makers of Liquid Nails, saves valuable time and adds strength and stability to the new drywall. For step-by-step instructions and helpful hints, go to www.liquidnails.com.
While preparing your home for winter, it is also important to think about drafts from poorly sealed windows and doors. Sealing windows, unused doors, appliance vents and window air conditioning units can significantly lower your heating bills, with total energy savings amounting to $10 to $20 per window or door. Using a weather sealant, such as Windjammer Removable Weather Sealant, makes this money-saving task a time-saver as well. The formula is clear, requires no measuring or cutting and will not damage surfaces. Best of all, the nozzle allows for precise application and there is no need to use a caulk gun. Simply apply a clear bead between the window pane and glass for a draft-tight, waterproof seal that will keep the winter chill out of your home. Windjammer is also easily removed in the spring; simply peel the clear strip away from the window. For more information, visit www.getwindjammer.com.
Once the inside of your home is ready for the upcoming cold weather, it’s time to head outdoors and prepare your yard. Bring tropical plants inside; this protects them from freezing and adds color to your home. Once trees have lost their leaves, clear all the debris from the yard. Don’t forget to clear out rain gutters also, as the buildup keeps water inside, which can freeze and cause gutters to burst.
If you have a pond or other water feature in your yard, be sure to remove the leaves from it as well to avoid clogged filters. Make sure that the pond doesn’t completely freeze by adding a floating pond de-icer to prevent ice from forming. If the climate permits, leave your pump running through the winter; it is better for the life of the pump. Otherwise, store your pond pump in a heated garage or inside the house. Visit www.888beckett.com for more information and helpful tips on winterizing your pond.
Completing these projects early this fall will assure that your home is winter-ready with time to spare. In as little as a weekend, your winterization projects can be completed, giving you more time to focus on upcoming holiday preparations for family and friends. Courtesy of ARA Content
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