3 Ways to Prepare Your Home For Winter In Minneapolis

Winter is coming. Is your home ready? Here are 3 projects you can do in Minneapolis to get ready for the season so you can enjoy all the things that winter brings with it.

 

Drafts in your space result in higher energy bills. And even if the Minneapolis winter is mild, servicing drafty areas can also keep your house cool during the summer. You can improve your home’s insulation and minimize drafts by:

• Installing extra insulation to your crawlspace and attic. Consult with a professional to learn if your current situation is enough.

• Testing your doors and windows for any gaps or leaks that you find.

• Installing energy-efficient window treatments such as Polywood® plantation shutters with integrated weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate up to 70% better than a normal wood shutter and block close to 30 degrees of airflow.

• Getting an energy audit to see how air might be seeping out of your house and what extra steps you can take to fix it.

2. Go on the offensive against water damage

Water damage can ruin your winter fun. Prior to when the temperature drops too low or a wet winter season begins, take preventative measures to keep water moving where it should, rather than finding its way to where it might damage your home. Take a look at what you can do:

• Clean your gutters out so that water and melted snow can easily run out. Obstructed gutters can lead to dams which can harm your roof or cause water to leak inside.

• Keep your pipes warm because frozen water pipes are likely to rupture and result in major trouble for your house. Hinging on your climate and home, you may want to talk to a professional about insulating pipes near the exterior of your home or even wrapping them with heat tape. Remember to keep your thermostat at at least 55° at night, especially if you’re out of town.

3. Get Your Home Inspected

You want to ensure that your house is running in perfect form when winter starts. Yearly check-ups of key systems in your house can make sure yours is safe and energy efficient.

• HVAC and water heater. Your heating system and water heater are two of the biggest energy sinks in your home. An HVAC and water heater inspection will safeguard you from malfunction. Now is also a great time to get your water heater flushed out to prevent buildup.

• Chimney. Inspections let you enjoy the ambiance of your chimney without worrying about soot buildup.

Enjoy The Season

When your home is prepared for winter, you can enjoy everything it has to offer in Minneapolis, from a drink by the fireplace to gatherings with guests. And if you’re in the mood for a brand-new look for your space this winter, drop us a line to discuss window treatments such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any space in your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Minneapolis at 952-856-8130 for a complimentary in-home consultation.