At Home In Berks Fall 2021 - 28

FEATURES
Keeping Warm
This Winter
By Karen L. Chandler
W
inter is not all holidays and parties! Being
prepared before the snow starts to fly is the
safest bet for your peace of mind during the
cold months of the year.
This fall is a great time to think about winterizing your
home, and starting outside while the days are cooler is a
great way to get ready.
Outside Maintenance
Checking your gutters for debris or damage is key
to protect your foundation from water that can cause
expensive damage. Make sure your downspouts were not
bumped out of position this summer and that they are
facing away from the house.
If your gutters or your roof show damage, get advice on
repairs or replacement from a trusted roofing professional
before winter hits.
Cut away any tree branches that hang over your home
and have the potential to cause roof damage when the
weight of snow and ice drag them down. Professional
landscape maintenance can help if you cannot safely access
the higher branches that could cause damage.
Use a high-quality caulk or sealant to fill any open
seams or holes on the outside of your house, paying extra
attention to gaps around windows, doors, faucets, and
siding.
Add Insulation
Most homes have insufficient attic insulation. The EPA
states that attics should have a minimum of R-38 insulation
which would be about ten to fourteen inches deep to keep
the heat downstairs where it belongs.
Caulk around all the holes around pipes, ducts, and
wires and place an insulated cover over the attic access
point.
Make sure your fireplaces have a tight seal when the
flue is closed to keep warm air from heading out of your
chimney.
Stop the Drafts
Check for gaps around window and door frames that
may let cold air enter your home and cause expensive
heating bills. Self-sticking weatherstripping is helpful to
stop some of the drafts. If you see any light under your
exterior doors, consider adding a door sweep or raising
the threshold to block the air coming in. Installing storm
windows or upgrading to energy-efficient doors and
windows is your best bet for a warm winter.
An unexpected amount of cold air can blow in around
electrical outlets. With dozens of outlets in your home,
imagine the heat loss potential. An easy fix for drafty
outlets is foam outlet gaskets that fit easily over the outlet
itself underneath the cover.
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AT HOME IN BERKs FALL 2021
At Home In Berks Fall 2021

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