Ready or not, winter is on its way, and in New England, we understand how hard it can get. As the summer days and cool fall days turn into the crisp winter air, it’s time to start preparing for the coldest months – especially as extreme weather conditions become more common.
At Anderson Insulation of ME, we understand the importance of having a comfortable home throughout the season changes. On top of completely renovating your home, we have a few tips that will help you mitigate winter damages without high costs. Whether it’s your first winter in a new home, or you are deciding it may be time to throw out heated blankets and space heaters, here are a few ways to avoid winter damages this season.
One of the best ways to get on top of winter damage is to check your home for drafts and leaks. By targeting the areas that may have lower insulation or weaker frames is a great way to prevent further damages. Leaks and drafts coming through doors, walls, windows, etc. will prevent proper heat from reaching every room in the house. It will also result in an increase in heating costs, which is difficult, to begin with.
Before you begin to utilize your fireplace or woodstove this winter, have the chimney (if applicable) inspected and cleaned by a professional. This will prevent chimney fires, which account for over 20,000 residential fires each year during the holiday season. A blocked chimney will increase your chances of carbon monoxide poisoning. If you have a decorative fireplace or insert, you may be at risk of losing heat through the open fireplace. Investing in a chimney balloon can prevent heat from escaping and cold air from entering.
A common misconception when thinking about installing insulation is that it always requires major renovations. At Anderson Insulation of ME, that doesn’t have to be the case. We understand that many homeowners are in need of insulation but are in no position to have renovations done. With our cellulose, spray foam, and fiberglass insulation, we have options for each scenario. Looking for quick attic insulation? Try spray foam insulation. Looking to quickly fill spaces without renovation? Try our cellulose insulation, completely made from recycled newspapers.
Lastly, make sure your home is winter storm-ready. With storms becoming more and more familiar to the New England coastal towns, it is important to be expecting the worst – and to be prepared for the same. Cold weather can do a number on your home, and you don’t want to have extensive repairs after winter. Add some basic winter home maintenance to the checklist, for example adding insulation to your attic and basement, making sure your gutters are free of debris, and turning off any outside faucets and pipes to prevent leaks in your yard.
Anderson Insulation of Maine has the largest fleet of trucks across New England. Our insulation products seamlessly seal walls right into the corners. If you are looking for an easy fix without extensive renovations to prepare for the winter season, we can help you. Request a free estimate today.