No matter what time of year it is, there are always things you can do to weatherproof your home. From sealing cracks and gaps to ensuring your gutters are cleared out, a little of work now can save you a lot of headaches (and money) down the road. Are you still trying to figure out where to start? Don’t worry! Here are nine ways to weatherproof your home for all seasons:
Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
One of the most important things you can do to weatherproof your home is to keep an eye on your roof and gutters. Roofs and gutters are prone to damage due to wind, rain, and snow. They are also the first line of defense against the elements since they help keep water away from your house. Your roofs and gutters are also a good indication of how well your home is weatherproofed.
Simple damage like missing shingles and clogged gutters can easily lead to serious water damage in your homes, like rotting wood and mold. If you notice a musty smell or see water marks on your walls or ceilings, it could mean that your roof and gutters need to be inspected. To prevent this from happening, regularly inspect your roof and gutters by doing the following:
- Check shingles and other roof materials for damage or wear
- Clear out gutters of any debris, such as leaves, twigs, etc.
- Make sure all downspouts are working properly and free of blockage
- Look for signs of water damage on your roof, walls, and ceilings, like stains or musty smells
If the damage is too severe or you’re unsure how to inspect your roof and gutters, it is best to contact a professional. They can do the job correctly, and you won’t have costly repairs.
Seal Any Cracks or Gaps
Take a walk outside your home and look for cracks or gaps in the siding or trim. These cracks may seem small, but they can let in a surprising amount of cold air in the winter and hot air in the summer. Cracks could be due to age, ground movement, or a poor installation job. This could also mean your home is losing energy and costing you money. This is because cracks and gaps could lead to higher utility bills due to a lack of insulation in those areas.
To prevent this, fill in any cracks or gaps with a high-grade sealant. These are great for keeping the weather out and help to insulate your home. If you’re unsure what kind of sealant to use, most hardware stores will have a selection, like silicone caulking, foam spray, and weather stripping. Contact a professional if the crack is too big for your sealant. They can properly fill it in and inspect the area to ensure no other issues need to be addressed.
Check Your Insulation
One way to keep your energy bills low all year round is to ensure your home is properly insulated. During the summer, your insulation should be able to keep the cool and hot air in. During the winter, it should do the exact opposite. If your utility bills are high or your home is not as comfortable as it should be, you may need to check your insulation.
Look for any signs of damage, like holes, tears, or water damage. If you have an attic, check to see if the insulation is still in good condition and thick enough by doing the following:
- Use a ruler to measure the depth of the insulation. Ideally, it should be 10-14 inches deep
- Check to make sure there is no water damage on the insulation
- Look for areas where air may be leaking in or out
If your insulation is too thin or there are any signs of wear and tear, you may need to add more or replace the old one. It is best to contact a professional to examine the area and ensure that your home is properly insulated.
Waterproof Your Deck or Patio
If you have a deck or patio, it is important to waterproof them so that they don’t succumb to the elements. Exposure to rain and snow can cause wood decks and patios to rot or become discolored. This is because the wood absorbs the moisture and swells, which could lead to further damage. To prevent this from happening, regularly waterproof your deck or patio by doing the following steps:
- Clean your deck or patio with mild soap and water
- Let it dry completely
- Apply waterproofing to the surface
- Let it dry completely again before use
If you’re unsure how to do it or the job is too big for you to handle, contact a professional who can do it correctly. This will help prevent any water damage and extend the life of your deck or patio. A well-maintained deck or patio can withstand the elements and last for many years.
You can avoid future costly repairs by frequently examining your property for damage and addressing any existing problems. Conserving time and money is as easy as that! Don’t hesitate to contact a professional for help with these tasks if necessary.
