Each fall, many homeowners take similar steps to prepare their home for winter. This may include wrapping exposed pipes, winterizing the sprinkler system, cleaning the gutters and more. You understandably want your home to be as protected against the elements as possible. As your primary shelter, you also need it to be fully protective of you and your family throughout the winter. These are a few excellent home improvement ideas to consider making to further prepare your home for the frigid weather conditions that will soon arrive.
Replace the Insulation
Many homes have older insulation that is less effective because of deterioration or other factors. Some homes were built with low-quality insulation. By replacing the existing insulation with higher-quality insulation, such as spray-in foam insulation, you may dramatically improve your comfort level indoors. This type of project may most easily be completed as part of a home remodel, and it may also result in lower energy costs going forward.
Install New Windows and Doors
Your home’s exterior doors and windows may not be as effective at protecting you and your family from the elements as you might think. When these features are closed, you expect them to block all outdoor elements, but they may be the cause of uncomfortable drafts that can chill you throughout the season. Installing more energy efficient windows can bolster your comfort level significantly. In addition, you may compare the features of your door materials against the features of other materials to determine if an upgrade is beneficial. Doors and windows should also be resealed annually for the best results.
Upgrade Your Roof
Older roofs may be much less energy efficient than they should be. They may allow cold air to penetrate into your attic, and this can impact the temperature in your home. In addition, some roof materials have superior insulative properties compared to other roof materials. As part of your winter preparations, schedule a roofing inspection to learn more about your roof’s current condition. Make all repairs as recommended, or consider replacing the roof with superior materials as a home improvement.
Add a New Fireplace
Fireplaces are charming features that improve interior décor and ambiance, and they also can promote your comfort throughout the winter. Many homes already have one small fireplace installed, but a home remodel may give you the opportunity to install one or several additional fireplaces in the most-used areas of your home. This could include your living room, outdoor living space, master bedroom or even the kitchen. You may also work with a contractor to enlarge an existing fireplace or to add a gas component for easier usage.
Winter preparations are essential if you want to make your home as comfortable and protective as possible in the months ahead. While you need to take common maintenance steps, you may also make a few more significant home improvements to enhance your property’s functionality, ambiance and value. For more information about these or other home improvement ideas, reach out to the team at Alair Homes Greenville today.