Protecting yourself from the cold weather shouldn’t cost an arm and a leg. Here’s what you need to know to winterproof — or, as some call it, winterize — your home. You can even start saving money too, while we’re at it. Don’t let the snow and the end of daylight saving time get you down!
Depending on where (and how!) you live, choosing to winterproof your home doesn’t need to be expensive. It’s just a matter of maintenance.
We strongly believe in being proactive about home maintenance. Whether it’s mold or potential water damage, there are many relatively cheap ways to prevent bigger issues down the road. Those issues can become quite costly. A little foresight and routine check-ups can go a very long way.
Caulk it up!
In the fall or toward the end of summer, take a good look around your property. Are there any gaps or cracks in the foundations or walls? Fill them in with expanding foam or caulk. Caulk will set you back only about $10 and $20 at the most. This will keep the heat inside and pesky critters out. …And it’ll keep some more of your hard-earned dollars in the bank, instead of going back to Com Ed.
Insulate your windows.
You can find inexpensive plastic wrap specifically for this! Any home-improvement store will have it. Most Target or Walmart stores will carry it, too. Get out the blow dryer, the instruction booklet, and start keeping out that draft.
Check in with your furnace.
Perhaps you already know how to make sure it’s functioning properly, but routine furnace checks are very important. Not only for staying warm, but making sure your monthly pay-out for gas or energy isn’t wasted. You can certainly DIY this one, but a simple annual professional assessment shouldn’t run you more than a hundred bucks or so.
Home ownership — and even renting — is a life-long process of learning.
Unless you’re already a handyman. But assuming you’re not, these are just our top tips for getting started. Setting a budget specifically for home maintenance and regular repair will keep you comfortable and safe. But we understand that this can take time and practice. If you need professional assistance or advice, don’t be afraid to ask for it.
For now? Winterization doesn’t need to be expensive, and it can save you money in the long-term.
