|
 Here is a simple hint for winterizing your home. Once the leaves fall, remove them and other debris from your home's gutters either by hand, by scraper or spatula, and finally by a good hose rinse thus enabling the winter's rain and melting snow to drain. Clogged drains can form ice dams, in which water backs up, freezes and causes water to seep into the house.
As you're hosing out your gutters, look for leaks and misaligned pipes. Also, make sure the downspouts are carrying water away from the house's foundation, where it could cause flooding or other water damage. The rule of thumb is that water should be at least 10 feet away from the house. One of the best ways to winterize your home is to simply block obvious leaks around your house, both inside and out, experts say. The average American home has leaks that amount to a nine-square-foot hole in the wall, according to EarthWorks Group. First, find the leaks: On a breezy day, walk around inside holding a lit incense stick to the most common drafty areas: recessed lighting, window and door frames, electrical outlets. Then, buy door sweeps to close spaces under exterior doors, and caulk or apply tacky rope caulk to those drafty spots. Outlet gaskets can easily be installed in electrical outlets that share a home's outer walls, where cold air often enters. Outside, seal leaks with weather-resistant caulk. For brick areas, use masonry sealer, which will better stand up to freezing and thawing. Remember even if it's a small crack, it's worth sealing up and it will also discourage any insects from entering your home.
|