The fall season has been especially warm in many parts of the country. In addition to prolonging the cold, winter season, it has also given many homeowners more time to prepare for the coming cold weather. If you have yet to make these home preparations, rest easy because you still have time. If you are looking to increase the warmth of your house and reduce your energy bills this coming winter, these are some of the best housing renovations to make.
Window repairs and replacements
Drafty windows can let a lot of cold air in. They can also let the heat out, making it more difficult to properly heat the house. Fortunately, window replacements last for many years, so once you replace all of your windows, you can forget about them for many years. You just have to decide on the best material for windows to have installed for your new window installation. Wood window replacements tend to keep cold air out better. Replacing standard windows with energy efficient windows, such as wood window replacements, and doors that meet the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Department of Energy?s Energy Star program lowers energy bills by 7 to 15%, according to www.energystar.gov.
Replace worn out entrance doors
Doors also have the potential to let a lot of heat out and cold air in. If they are not installed properly, the heat can escape from underneath the door and around the sides of the door. An entry door replacement can make a significant difference to heating and cooling utility bills. Additionally, a new door installation is a relatively simple project. Many homeowners choose to DIY a door replacement. For the best results, consider changing out all doors that lead to the exterior of the house.
Full roofing and siding inspection
Heat can also escape through the roof and the siding. Also, cold weather elements, like snow, can sit on the roof and emit cold air into the house. If the house is not properly insulated or the roof needs repairs, this can cause a permanent cold draft in the house. The best type of roofing will depend on the size and shape of your house. It will also depend on what type of roofing you currently have and if you want to completely remove it and replace. Roofing experts estimate that the life of your new roof will be cut by as much as 20%, however, if it is installed on top of the existing roof.
The best type of siding is usually anything that is insulated and low maintenance. Composite siding such as fiber cement, or a mix of wood pulp and cement, combines the performance of masonry and it boasts minimal upkeep, rot free, termite free, and fireproof, it is also unaffected by the wind or cold. You can get composite siding with the look of painted wood, wood clapboards, shingles, and even stone or brick. The composite siding will match perfectly with your wood window replacements.
Despite a warmer than average fall season, winter is on its way. The weather has already begun to chill and there is a crisp cold in the air. Before it gets too cold, you will want to prepare your house for maximum efficiency during the winter months. Completing tasks like window replacement, external door replacements, and roof and siding inspections can insulate your home and keep the heat in. This will translate to lower heating bills and you will be warm and cozy, all winter long.
