Blog
Prep Your Home for Winter Weather
Cold weather in Plattsburgh can really propel your utility bills to the skies. The good news is there’s plenty you can do to prepare your home for the cold and possibly save some money.
- Clean
window sills and moving parts. Sand,
dirt, leaves and other debris can get caught in window sills
and budging parts of windows or doors —and this can cause shutting
problems. Clean these parts with a dry paintbrush to establish
a tighter seal and improve window
and door operation.
- Test
weather stripping. Unfastened
weather stripping can let cold air in and impact
your home’s environment. Be sure to fix or change
any unattached weather stripping around windows and
doors.
- Examine
the caulk or sealant around windows and doors. Extreme weather in the Plattsburgh
area and fierce sunlight can cause openings
in caulk or sealant around windows and doors. Refer with a
local expert to determine if
fresh caulk or sealant needs to be applied to your windows
and doors.
- Repair
or replace damaged exterior surfaces. Cracked or deteriorated wood on the
roof or near the foundation may allow cold air to escape
into your home. Confer with a expert
to help improve any roof problems around your home.
- Install
storm doors. Storm doors add an extra layer of defense
from intense weather and also help decrease
air leakage. If you have storm doors, but they’re not operating
well, it may be time for replacement doors.
- Swap
old windows and doors with energy-efficient ones. If you have ancient
windows or doors or they have single-pane glass, you are probably paying extra to heat your home. Fresh doors and windows
with energy
efficient, double, or triple pane glass made with protecting
argon can help save
money long-term. Windows with snap-in, between-the-glass blinds or
shades can also help protect your home from cold
outdoor temperatures.