Home Improvement
5 Tips to Winterize Your Home
Winter is coming.
That means snow will be on its way soon enough (if it hasn’t already come!). That also means that a lot of things could go wrong in your home if you don’t prepare properly.
If you have lived in a cold climate for a while, you probably know how to winterize your home. But if you’re new to living in cold climates or this is your first home, you probably need a few tips to winterize your home.
Either way, use these tips as a checklist to ensure you are ready for winter!
1. Protect the Pipes
Pipes are notorious for freezing during the winter months, especially when the temperatures drop below 32 degrees Fahrenheit.
To make sure this doesn’t happen, you should always have a slight stream of water running through the faucets to protect it from freezing. In bathrooms and the kitchen, you can also open the cabinets to allow warmer air from the room to surround the pipes.
If your pipes do freeze, you have a bigger problem on your hands because the pipes could burst.
2. Check Your Heat
One of the most important things you will need during winter is heat. Before the cold weather approaches, you want to check your heat to make sure all is working.
There are many ways to go about heating your home; you just want to ensure it is working!
3. Seal Cracks
If you’ve been putting off sealing cracks that you have seen throughout the year, it’s time to add that to the top of your to-do list. If you avoid it, you’ll have an uncomfortable draft coming into the home and warm air leaving the home.
When warm air leaves and cold air comes in, you are going to have a higher heating bill, which is something you can avoid.
Be sure to check around doors and windows for cracks.
4. Check the Gutters
There’s more to check than just the inside of your home. You should also check the gutters.
You want to prevent ice dams from occurring by making sure the gutters are clean and free of any and all debris. It’s a good habit to get into to check the gutters throughout the winter as well to keep them clear.
5. Clear the Yard
While you want to winterize your home, you also want to winterize the surrounding area like your yard.
Make sure you trim your trees and remove dead branches. Snow and ice can weaken branches. If they fall, they could land on your house and damage your home, or worse, hurt someone.
Tips to Winterize Your Home
Now that you know these tips to winterize your home, it’s time to get started! The countdown to winter is on, and you want to beat it!
If you enjoyed reading these helpful tips, be sure to look at our site for other articles like this one with more great tips!
Khalil ur Rehman is a proud born and raised in Abbottabad. Khalil has worked as a journalist for nearly a decade having contributed to several large publications including the Yahoo News and The Verge. As a journalist for The Hear Up, Khalil covers climate and science news. [email protected]
If you’re a homeowner in Australia, you’re likely looking for ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency, reduce your energy bills and make your home more comfortable all year round. One way to achieve all of these goals is by installing double glazing.
Double glazing refers to the use of two panes of glass with a gap between them, which helps to insulate your home better than single glazed windows. However, many homeowners are put off by the perceived cost of double glazing.
The good news is that there are many affordable double glazing options available for Australian homeowners. We’ll explore the different types of double glazing, their costs and the installation process, so you can make an informed decision about whether double glazing is right for your home.
What to Consider When Choosing Double Glazing
When selecting the right double glazing option for your home, consider the following factors:
1. Budget: Determine how much you are willing to spend on double glazing.
2. Window type: Consider the style and functionality of your existing windows.
3. Climate: Choose a double glazing option that suits the local climate and temperature variations.
4. Energy efficiency: Look for options that offer maximum energy savings.
Types of Double Glazing
There are two main types of double glazing available: uPVC and aluminium.
uPVC Double Glazing
uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) is a popular choice for double glazing due to its durability, low maintenance and thermal efficiency. uPVC windows and doors are available in a range of styles and colours to suit your home’s aesthetic.
Pros:
· Low maintenance
· Energy efficient
· Durable
Cons:
· Not suitable for extreme temperatures
· Can discolour over time
Aluminium Double Glazing:
Aluminium double glazing is another popular option for homeowners due to its strength, durability and slimline profile. Aluminium frames are available in a range of colours and finishes to suit your home.
Pros:
· Durable and strong
· Slimline profile
· Easy to maintain
Cons:
· Can conduct heat and cold
· Can be more expensive than uPVC
Affordable Double Glazing Options
1. Secondary Glazing
Secondary glazing is an affordable alternative to full double glazing. This involves installing an additional pane of glass or acrylic on the inside of your existing single-glazed windows. Secondary glazing offers improved insulation and noise reduction, while also being more cost-effective than full double glazing.
2. DIY Double Glazing Kits
DIY double glazing kits provide homeowners with a cost-effective solution to upgrading their windows. These kits typically include all necessary materials and instructions for installation. While DIY double glazing may not offer the same level of performance as professionally installed options, it can still provide significant energy savings and improved comfort.
3. Double Glazed Window Inserts
Double glazed window inserts are an affordable option for homeowners who want to upgrade their existing windows without replacing them entirely. These inserts consist of a double glazed unit that fits within the existing window frame, providing improved insulation and noise reduction. This option is particularly suitable for heritage homes or properties with unique window styles that cannot be easily replaced.
4. Low-E Glass
Low-E (low emissivity) glass is a type of double glazing that features a thin, transparent coating designed to reduce heat transfer. Low-E glass can be more affordable than other double glazing options, while still providing improved energy efficiency and noise reduction. This option is ideal for homeowners looking to balance cost and performance.
How to Choose the Right Double Glazing Installer
When not going down the DYI route, and selecting a double glazing installer, consider the following factors when picking an appropriate installer:
1. Experience: Look for a company with a proven track record and expertise in double glazing installation.
2. Quality of materials: Ensure the installer uses high-quality materials that meet Australian standards.
3. Warranties: Choose an installer that offers a comprehensive warranty on both materials and workmanship.
4. Customer reviews: Research customer reviews and testimonials to gauge the quality of the installer’s work.
Maximising the Benefits of Double Glazing
To fully enjoy the benefits of double glazing, consider the following tips:
1. Seal gaps and cracks: Ensure your home is well-sealed to prevent drafts and improve overall insulation.
2. Install window coverings: Use curtains or blinds to provide additional insulation and reduce heat transfer.
3. Regular maintenance: Clean and maintain your double glazed windows to ensure they remain in optimal condition.
Final Thoughts
By considering the various affordable double glazing options available, Australian homeowners can improve the energy efficiency, comfort, and security of their homes without breaking the bank. From secondary glazing to low-E glass, there are options to suit a range of budgets and needs. By selecting the right double glazing option and installer, homeowners can enjoy the numerous benefits of double glazed windows, including reduced energy bills, improved comfort, and increased property value.
Umar Nisar was born and raised in the busy city of Abbottabad. As a journalist, Umar Nisar has contributed to many online publications including PAK Today and the Huffing Post. In regards to academics, Umar Nisar earned a degree in business from the Abbottabad UST, Havelian. Umar Nisar follows the money and covers all aspects of emerging tech here at The Hear Up.
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