Your home winterization can save energy and prevent cold weather disasters. Here is a quick checklist to help you prepare your home for the cold, and help you feel cozy during the upcoming season.

Windows

Save up to 10% on your energy bills by caulking and adding weather stripping to your windows. Caulking is very easy to do yourself, and will stop the cold drafty air and moisture from penetrating your home. Caulking the seal from the outside of your home is simple. Scrape away the old caulk from the area where the glass meets the frame of the window, and run a new line of caulk. Once sealed and dried, go back and check for shrinkage of the caulking and make sure there are no spots missed where moisture and wind can enter.

Doors

Check doors with a thick piece of paper such as cardstock. If there is enough room to slide the paper under your door, you will feel the cold. Small gaps such as these allow insects, cold air, moisture, dirt and dust into your home. Two remedies exist, the first is adding a simple door sweep to the bottom of the door. These easy to install, and will create a secure seal under your door. Another remedy would be re-leveling or replacing your threshold plate. Both solutions will stop the draft you feel at floor level in your home.

Pipes and Outdoor Faucets

The outdoor faucets you use to water your lawn in the summer, can rupture during a deep freeze. Styrofoam covers are made to protect these faucets. These covers simply slip right over the outdoor faucet. If you have pipes under your home that you can access, you can cover them with pre-slit tube foam in minutes. If your water heater is located in a place facing the exterior of the home, use a water heater blanket to protect it and reduce your energy costs.

Air Conditioners

Window air conditioners can be a huge source of escaped heat and added draft in your home during the winter months. Cover these units with air conditioner covers and weather seal any gaps or cracks with foam or weather stripping. This will stop the cold, and preserve your unit for the next season.

Self Stick Weather Tape

Weatherstip tape is a foam tape that is fun to use, and only takes minutes to install. Foam weatherstripping comes in a variety of sizes and thickness. Simply line doorways to create a tight seal when you close the door. You may find yourself searching for more areas to use this wonderful tape once you realize how fun, quick and easy it is to use.

Affordable Tools in Midland, Texas can help you with any questions you have about winterization.

Stop by today at 908 S. Garfield in Midland and let us help you prepare for winter!