Welcome back to the Velvet Runway and this feature about Tips For Winterizing Your Great Lakes Home .
The USA’s Great Lakes region is one of the country’s most beautiful, the long miles of lakeshore and vast, thriving wilderness areas make it the delight of sportsmen and nature enthusiasts. The State of Wisconsin, also known as “The Badger State” lies on Lake Michigan’s western shore and is the 23rd largest state in the union. The population is growing because of all the great economic opportunities the state has to offer, along with its pleasant and relaxed lifestyle.
Because of this growth, the construction of new homes is booming, and contractors and builders are working overtime to fill the ever-increasing demand! Owning a home in Wisconsin is a very rewarding experience, but it you are new to the area there is something you really need to be aware of- the winters are brutal!
Every year a number of area homes have their roofs blown off by the gale force winds coming across Lake Michigan, which transforms into a wild Arctic sea for the season! When you are planning your new home be sure to hire the very best local talent, the Mequon roofing experts know exactly how to build you a roof that can withstand Wisconsin’s winter fury! They will make sure your roof doesn’t end up somewhere in Minnesota so your family can be dry and safe all season long!
Tips For Winterizing Your Great Lakes Home
To help you prepare for old Jack Frost’s coming visit, we have asked local experts for some tips on how to winterize your Great Lakes home!
1. Weather Stripping
Your precious (and expensive) heat can escape your home’s interior through draughty doors and windows. Solve the problem by applying quality weather stripping to seal that heat in and keep the cold out!
Consider installing draft stoppers or heavy curtains to block cold air from entering through doors.
2. Insulate Windows
You can make your windows more weather-resistant with a window insulation kit to provide an extra layer of protection!
3. Pipe Insulation
The locals can tell you that frozen pipes are a nightmare, so make sure yours are well-wrapped and covered before the winter cold hits!
Freezing temperatures can cause pipes to burst, leading to expensive repairs and water damage. Insulate exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. You can use foam pipe insulation or heat tape to help keep your pipes warm. Additionally, on extremely cold nights, keep a trickle of water running in your faucets to prevent freezing.
4. Water Heater Blanket
Gas, oil, and electric water heaters can lose their heat when temperatures drop without the extra protection of a nice, warm insulation blanket. Insulating your water heater keeps your water temperature high and your energy bill low!
5. Protect Outdoor Plumbing
Don’t forget about your outdoor plumbing! Drain and disconnect garden hoses, and shut off the water supply to outdoor faucets to prevent freezing. If you have an irrigation system, make sure it’s properly drained before winter sets in. Any water left in pipes can freeze, expand, and cause pipes to crack or burst.
6. Insulate Your Attic
Proper attic insulation is crucial for keeping warm air inside your home and preventing heat from escaping through the roof. Insufficient insulation can also contribute to ice dams, which occur when warm air escapes through the roof and melts snow, which then refreezes at the edges of the roof.
Add extra insulation if needed, and make sure your attic is well-ventilated to maintain consistent temperatures.
7. Inspect Your Chimney and Fireplace
If you have a wood-burning fireplace, it’s essential to have your chimney inspected and cleaned before winter. Creosote buildup can cause chimney fires, so it’s important to have a professional sweep it clean.
Also, check for any cracks or damage to the chimney structure. Ensure the damper is functioning properly to prevent cold air from entering when the fireplace is not in use.
8. Clear The Gutters
Leaves, pine needles, and other debris tend to get stuck in your gutters, so make sure to clear them out before the winter rain, sleet, and snow comes blowing in!
9 . Maintain Your Outdoor Areas
Snow and ice buildup on your driveway, walkways, and stairs can create hazardous conditions. Make sure you have shovels, salt, or sand ready for snow removal.
You might also want to install handrails on stairs or ramps to prevent slips and falls. If you have outdoor furniture, cover it or store it indoors to protect it from snow and ice damage.
10. Prepare for Power Outages
Winter storms can sometimes lead to power outages, so it’s a good idea to be prepared. Consider investing in a backup generator to keep essential appliances running during an outage.
Stock up on batteries, blankets, flashlights, and non-perishable food items. If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, make sure you have plenty of firewood to stay warm if the power goes out.
Final Thoughts on Tips For Winterizing Your Great Lakes Home
The Great Lakes are a great place to live, just be prepared for the hard winters, and remember, they just make summers that much sweeter!
By taking the time to prepare your home for the cold, you can avoid costly repairs, maintain energy efficiency, and enjoy peace of mind knowing that your home is well-protected from the harsh winter weather. Following these tips will help you keep your home warm, cozy, and ready for whatever winter brings.
I hope you found this feature about Tips For Winterizing Your Great Lakes Home helpful, and have a look here for more home inspiration.
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With love,
