In Colorado, winterizing your home is crucial for survival. Snow storms and freezing temperatures bring many challenges that only a prepared homeowner can hope to weather. From ensuring your roof is properly insulated, to insulation windows, and checking for drafts there are many measures to take to make certain your home is weather-proof for the winter season.
Keeping your pipes from freezing is another key component of winterizing your home in Colorado. Pipe insulation should be checked at least once a year as well as pipe insulation wraps, to ensure that water cannot freeze and cause cracks or other damage. It is also a good idea to shut off water sources outside of the home and any valves leading outside so that no water can escape when temperatures rise above the freezing point.
Snow build up on your roof should also be addressed when winterizing your home. Snow drifts around your home can lead to windows and doors become iced shut, and can also cause roof collapse if left unchecked. Installing a roof rake or simply removing excess snow with a snow shovel can help keep your roof safe and secure in the winter months.
Insulation and Weather-Proofing Elements
Make sure that your windows and doors are sealed and air-tight. Look for gaps or cracks near the frames and apply packing insulation or weather-stripping to fill in any holes. Also, check your insulation and replace it if necessary. Insulation will help trap heat inside of your home during colder temperatures, saving money on your energy bill.
If you want to take further measures, consider investing in additional insulation to give extra protection during severe winter weather. This can be done by adding more material to the attic or walls, and sealing air leaks around windows, doors, and other openings. Adding extra insulation can help keep your home warmer in the winter months and save money in the long run.
Check Your HVAC System
Once you have finished insulating, it is important to check your heating system and make sure it is working as it should. Have a technician come in to inspect the furnace and replace any worn or faulty parts. It is also helpful to check the air conditioner and ensure it is not leaking cold air. Lastly, change out your air filters to reduce energy bills and make sure your home is receiving an adequate amount of air circulation.
If you have a fireplace, you will want to check the chimney and make sure that is clear of debris. A clogged chimney can cause smoke build up and a fire hazard. It is also important to ensure that wood-burning stoves are air-tight to prevent air and smoke from leaking in your home.
If you live in an area where it snows heavily, you may want to install roof snow guards to help protect your roof from avalanche damage. Snow guards are plastic clips that attach to the metal edges of your roof, helping to redirect snow and ice away from the ground below.
Small Steps Make a Big Difference
- Check your roof for insulation, snow build up, and snow drifts.
- Inspect and seal any air leaks around windows and doors.
- Inspect and replace insulation in the attic and walls.
- Have your HVAC system checked and change air filters.
- Inspect your chimney and wood-burning stove if you have one.
- Install roof snow guards if you live in a snowy area.
Preparation is the Key
Winter in Colorado can be challenging, but proper preparation can help make sure that your home is up for the task. Taking the time to winterize your home can save you a lot of headache down the line, and help ensure that you and your family are safe and warm throughout the year.