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3 Projects to Prepare Your Home For Winter In Boise

December 14, 2016

Winter is coming. Is your house ready? Here are 3 projects you can do in Boise to prep for the season so you can relax and enjoy all the things that winter offers.

Plantation shutters in a corner window 

1. Lessen drafts

Drafts in your room result in higher energy costs. And even if the Boise winter may be mild, fixing drafty rooms can also keep your house cool come summer. You can maximize your home’s insulation and reduce drafts by:

  • Installing extra insulation to your crawlspace and attic. Consult with a professional to see if your current situation is sufficient.

  • Testing your doors and windows for air moving through any gaps that you find.

  • Putting in energy-efficient window coverings like Polywood® plantation shutters with added weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate up to 70% more effectively than a regular wood shutter and impede up to 30° of airflow through the window.

  • Getting a home audit to learn where air is seeping out of your house and what can be done to fix it.

Boise exercise room with shuttered windows.

2. Prevent water damage

Water damage can ruin your winter plans. Before the temperature dips or a wet winter season begins, take precautionary measures to keep water flowing where it was designed to go, instead of going where it might damage your house. Take a look at what you can do:

  • Clear your gutters of blockage so that water and melted snow can easily run out. Plugged gutters can lead to dams which can harm your roof or result in water leaking through your ceiling.

  • Keep your pipes heated since frozen water pipes are likely to rupture and cause major interior damage. Depending on your local weather and home, you may want to speak with a professional about insulating pipes next to exterior walls or even wrapping them with heat tape. Remember to keep your thermostat at at least 55° at night, especially if you’re away from home.

3. Take Advantage of Home Inspections

When winter starts, you need to ensure that your home is running in top shape. Yearly checks of the most important systems in the home can make sure your home is safe and energy efficient.

  • Ventilation and water heater. Your ventilation system and water heater are two of the most active energy users in your home. An HVAC and water heater inspection will safeguard you from malfunction. Prior to winter is also an ideal time to get your water heater flushed out to get rid of buildup.

  • Chimney. Inspections allow you to take advantage of the ambiance of your fireplace without worrying about soot buildup.

Boise fireplace with white shutters.

Relax and Enjoy This Winter

When your home is ready for winter, you can enjoy all it has to offer in Boise, from a night by the fireplace to gatherings with guests. And if you’re in the mood for a brand-new look for your space this winter, get in touch with us to discuss window treatments such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any room in your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Boise at 208-609-9129 for a complimentary in-home consultation.