Every year it feels the winter gets colder and more brutal. No matter what the weather may tell us, it is hard to truly be prepared for the winter months. EC Roofing knows that preparing your home for winter is a challenge. We have some great tips for you to be better prepared for the winter months and the elements that come with it. It’s best to be safe than sorry when winter weather can be so unpredictable.
It is very likely that preparing for winter is priority number one right now. However, the weather is unpredictable and can change in a matter of hours. There are a number of precautions you can take to prepare for winter and other extreme weather conditions that may occur. A great place to start is checking some of these parts of your home.
Insulated Windows
Insulated windows help keep the cold out and the warmth inside the house. Not only are they great for temperature balance, but they can also keep your energy bills way down. The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that people with insulated windows can see their home energy costs decrease by up to 30% than usual. Air leaks and winter drafts can force you to use your heating system more than usual. We can help you find the right vinyl replacement windows to keep your energy costs down during those cold winter months.
Check the Fireplace
If you own a wood-burning fireplace, there is a good chance you will want to use it during those cold winter nights. But is your fireplace ready to be frequently used? Over time, they may start to deteriorate, leaving you and your loved ones at risk. It is important to do an inspection of both the indoor and outdoor components of the fireplace to ensure it is safe. Some of the things you should look for include:
- The chimney cap is attached and working well
- No birds nest or debris are in the cap
- No tree limbs are around the chimney
- Mortar and bricks on the chimney are in good condition and not missing
- The roof flashing is firmly connected to the chimney
- No combustible materials (animal nests, other foreign objects) located in the flue
Chimneys are great for the winter months. But taking care of them properly is crucial to the condition of your home and life.
Inspect the Roof
It’s always fun to catch snowflakes on your tongue during the winter snow. However, when piled up and compacted, snow can weigh hundreds of pounds. In 2010, the Minnesota Vikings saw their home stadium roof collapse after a heavy snowfall. There are several preventative steps you can take to make sure that your roof can survive the snowfall. Making sure there are no missing or broken shingles, cracked caulk or rust spots on any flashing, and no moss or lichen that could mean decaying material underneath the shingles.
EC Roofing Can Help Your Winter Prep
Preparing your home for winter is not the most exciting job in the world, but it is necessary. EC Roofing is here to help you do any fixes you may need to ensure your home is ready for winter. Call 410-455-9880 today to speak to an expert and schedule an inspection.
