It’s finally starting to get cold out, and the chances are that you’re going to be spending a lot more time indoors. So this is the perfect time of year to make sure your home is prepared for the winter months ahead. But what should you really have in an ideal cold-climate home? In this blog post, we will talk about four things every house needs in the winter.
#1 Fireplace
The first thing to have in a cold-climate home is a fireplace. If you don’t already own one, the best thing to do is take some time and research what kind of fireplace will work best for your space. Of course, you want something that’s going to be functional and beautiful – after all, it should become an integral part of your home decor as well as provide warmth when needed!
There are several types of fireplaces out there: circulating (gas or electric), direct vent (ventless gas logs), vented natural gas/propane with glass doors & blowers; self-contained units that use real wood logs; authentic-looking log inserts like ventilators; traditional masonry hearths and much more.
#2 Insulation
Another essential thing to have in a cold-climate home is insulation. This includes having adequate insulation in your attic, basement, and/or crawl spaces. Insulation can keep out the blistering cold from winter winds that find their way into an uninsulated house, therefore keeping you warmer throughout the day. You can also upgrade baseboard heating to make sure that the cold air stays out of your home.
#3 Airtight windows
Third, another essential item that every cold-climate home needs are airtight windows. This includes replacing old weatherstripping and screens with new ones, as well as checking your window hardware for any signs of wear or damage. Having tight-fitting thermopane windows will prevent the warm inside air from escaping through small cracks in the glass, which can make a big difference in how much heat you use during wintertime. And if installing replacement double-paned units isn’t an option right now, consider adding storm panels over single-pane units to help keep out drafts.
#4 Entries that are covered
Fourth, another important item that every cold-climate home needs are entries that are covered. This includes having a storm entry door or porch to protect you from harsh winter weather. It might sound simple, but the right kind of cover will go a long way in keeping out snow and rain while allowing your belongings to be kept safe indoors. With so many options available for doors & porches, it’s easy to find something that not only fits with your style preferences but also looks great on your house! There are several types of materials, including steel, aluminum, fiberglass, wood, and composites, just to name a few.
In conclusion, having these four things in your cold-climate home will not only keep you warm and dry – but also save money on heating bills. So this winter, make sure to take a look at what might be missing from your dwelling!
September 12, 2022 at 8:47 am
Home insulation is an important job that helps to save on utility bills all year round. About 35% of home’s air escape through poorly insulated walls and through gaps. Thank you for sharing such a good article!
December 5, 2022 at 4:55 am
Thank you for sharing this article! Speaking of insulation, also remember to wrap exterior pipes and those in your home that are near exterior walls. It will improve your home’s energy efficiency and prevent pipes from freezing on cold winter days.
January 10, 2023 at 4:54 am
That’s an excellent point! Thank you for mentioning this. Frozen pipes are a common problem in winter.
In this article, you can find some extra information on how to prevent frozen pipes and what to do if your pipes freeze: https://happyhiller.com/blog/simple-ways-how-to-prevent-frozen-pipes-in-the-winter/.
December 14, 2022 at 2:32 am
Another thing your house needs in winter is a smoothly operating heating system. It’s essential for your comfort and the prevention of frozen pipes.
To keep your heating system in good condition, remember to maintain it regularly. Here’s everything you might want to know about this: https://www.gervaismechanical.com/34013-2/.
December 22, 2022 at 2:01 am
When preparing your home for winter, also think about smart thermostat installation. With a smart thermostat, you can drastically reduce your heating bills.
In this article, you can read about the optimal temperature and how much you can save: https://www.sandersandjohnson.com/save-money-on-your-heating-bills-by-adjusting-the-thermostat/.
January 12, 2023 at 2:54 am
I also advise to using HVAC zone control systems. Firstly, it will help achieve a comfortable temperature in each room of the house. Secondly, it can reduce your heating and cooling costs by up to 35%.
January 13, 2023 at 1:28 am
If extremely low temperatures and strong winds are not uncommon for your area as well as power outages due to this, you should consider investing in a home backup generator. A generator available to you in case of a power outage can be a huge advantage: you will be able to charge your phone and stay in touch and cook some food.
January 23, 2023 at 3:19 am
I see you mentioned some material options for doors. While they all have their merits, steel entry doors are a sure way to add to your home’s aesthetic and value. Aluminum doors are also a popular choice for many homeowners.
Here, we evaluate the pros and cons of steel and aluminum entry doors to help you decide which is right for you: https://portella.com/blog/exterior-steel-vs-aluminum-doors/.
January 24, 2023 at 2:20 am
Thanks for sharing these really helpful tips. I am currently searching for home maintenance ideas during winter to ensure maximum safety and blogs like yours and https://actioncraftexperts.com/5-steps-to-identifying-frozen-pipes/ are a real help for me!