DiY Home Winterizing Savings

Answer 1

Keep heating bills from going through the roof this winter by winterizing your home before the thermostat drops below freezing. Whether you have oil, gas, or an electric heating system there is a cost for heating your home during the winter. The listed tips can help you to be comfortable indoors, while getting the most for your heating dollars. Home Inspection List the areas of your home that are most vulnerable to the elements. Roofs, attics, basements, attached porches, garages, and balconies, windows, doors, gutters, chimneys, and fireplaces are the start of a good list. Inspect these areas in early fall when the weather is more hospitable for doing repairs. An attic or basement with a musty odor is an indicator of mildew from water leaking in. Hire a professional chimney sweep to check your Flute and fireplaces. Check for drafts around doors that lead outdoors, and to attached garages and patios. Materials Make two lists, one for repairs you can do and another for professional repairs. And you’re likely to get a better price for the services of a chimney sweep during his down time than when he’s busy. Take your DIY list to a home repair store and ask their salespeople what materials and techniques are best for your DIY job. Also, ask if they have a workshop coming up on any of your projects. Family Affair Include the kids. Show them how to check for drafts, and how to lower storm windows. Help them to craft draft blocker “snakes” to place at the bottom of interior doors. Teach them to put on a sweater before turning the thermostat up. Comfort Control Lower the thermostat at night to 68 degrees and add blankets and heavy comforters to beds. Cotton and flannel pajamas, robes, and wearing house shoes add to warmth. Using the oven to prepare a meal or snacks can quickly take the chill off a cold house in the evening. Close bedroom doors during the overnight hours to retain heat in the rooms.