It’s that time of year again: the leaves are changing color, the days are getting shorter, and the weather is getting colder. For many families, it’s time to start preparing their homes for winter. If you don’t take the necessary precautions, your home can be susceptible to a number of problems in the cold weather. Your roof may start leaking, your windows may become brittle and break, your garden may freeze, and your pipes may burst.
Investing in a few simple upgrades can keep your home warm and toasty all winter long. This can be difficult, but with a few simple upgrades, you can keep your house well-protected against the winter weather. Here are six of the best upgrades to make to your home to best prepare it for cold climates:
Smart Thermostats
Heating your home can be expensive, especially during the winter months. Without a smart thermostat, you may not be taking full advantage of your heating system, leading to higher energy bills. A smart thermostat can help you save money on your energy bills by allowing you to control your home’s temperature better.
Smart thermostats are programmable and can be controlled remotely. You can always ensure your home is at the perfect temperature, no matter what the weather is like outside. Also, this can help you avoid wasting energy, as you can turn down the heat when you’re not home and turn it back up quickly when you’re on your way back.
Covered Entrances
When it’s cold outside, you want to ensure that your home is as warm as possible. But if you don’t have a covered entrance, the cold air can seep through your front or back door, making your home feel drafty and uncomfortable. A covered entrance can help keep the cold air out and the heat in, making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient.
You can install a storm door, which is a door that is specifically designed to keep out the cold air. You can add a porch or portico to your front or back door. These are both great options if you want to add a bit of style to your home’s entrance.
Another option is to install awnings over your entrances. Awnings are a great way to keep the sun and rain out of your home, but they can also help keep the heat in. During the winter, you can close your awnings to create an additional barrier against the cold air.
Deep Winter Greenhouse
If you live in a cold climate, you may not be able to grow your own food during the winter months. But with the best greenhouse for cold climates, you can extend your growing season and have fresh fruits and vegetables all year round.
A winter greenhouse is designed to keep the inside of the greenhouse warm, even when it’s cold outside. This can be achieved using various methods, such as insulating the walls and ceiling, installing a heater, and using double-paned windows. By keeping the inside of the greenhouse warm, you can create the perfect environment for your plants to thrive, no matter what the weather is like outside.
Electric Floor Heating
Electric floor heating is a great option if you’re looking for a way to keep your feet warm in the winter. This type of heating is installed under your flooring and provides gentle, radiant heat. It’s a great way to keep your feet warm, even when the rest of your body is cold.
Electric floor heating is an excellent option for homes with tile or hardwood floors. It’s also a good choice for people who suffer from allergies, as it doesn’t circulate dust or other allergens in the air. Just ensure that you get a system specifically designed for your type of flooring.
Airtight Windows
One of the best ways to keep your home warm in the winter is to ensure that your windows are airtight. Drafts can let in cold air, making your home feel drafty and uncomfortable. By sealing your windows, you can help keep the heat and cold air out.
There are a few different ways to seal your windows. You can install weatherstripping around your windows to create a tight seal. You can also use caulk to fill in gaps or cracks around your windows.
Another option is to install a window film. Window film helps insulate your windows and can even reduce the UV rays entering your home. This is perfect for keeping your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter.
Wide, Flat Walkways
If you live in an area that gets a lot of snow, you know how difficult it can be to keep your walkways and driveways clear. Ice can make it difficult to get around your property and can even be dangerous. Not only do you have to shovel the snow, but you also have to worry about the ice buildup.
One way to clear your walkways and driveways from snow easier is to install wide, flat walkways. These walkways are less likely to accumulate ice and are much easier to shovel. They can also help you avoid getting snow on your shoes when you come in from the outside.
Another benefit of wide, flat walkways is that they can help improve your home’s curb appeal. They can make your property look more polished and put together, increasing its value.
Upgrade Your Home Before Winter
Take some time to walk around your property and look for any areas where heat might escape. Pay special attention to your windows, doors, and any other openings. Once you’ve identified any problem areas, you can start working on solutions. Being ready for the cold weather can save you a lot of money on your energy bills and keep your family comfortable all season long.
