Winters Biggest Threats to Your Home

While you can't change the weather, you can minimize some of winter's biggest threats to your home. Heavy snow accumulation can pose a threat to your home-- both as it builds up and as it melts.

The three most important things to do are:

1.      Remove snow from basement stairwells, window wells and all walls. Melting snow can lead to water damage and moisture intrusion.

2.      Keep your attic well ventilated to maintain a temperature close to that of the outdoors to minimize the risk of ice dams forming. A warm attic melts snow on the roof, causing water to run down and refreeze at the roof's edge, where it's much cooler. If ice builds up and blocks water from draining, water is forced under the roof covering and into your attic or down the inside walls of your house.

3.      Watch for snow accumulation on the leeward (downwind) side of a higher-level roof, where blowing snow will collect. For safe removal that won't endanger you or damage your roof, consult a roofing contractor for a referral.

Make Your Home Energy Efficient

Cold winds are blowing and your home is working as hard as it can to keep you comfortable. Now is a good time to make energy efficient renovations. Reduce air leaks and stop drafts by using caulk, weather stripping, and insulation to seal your home’s envelope and add more insulation to your attic to block out cold. You can save up to 20 percent on heating costs and enhance home comfort with comprehensive sealing according to the EPA.

Tips for Selling

• Offer Creative Incentives

For instance you can offer to pay 6 months’ worth of electric bills, include brand new appliances, or cash in on some holiday sales and offer a huge TV mounted on a wall.

 

• Consider your Paint Choices

New paint is always a plus for home buyers however steer clear of bright or dreary colors like black or red, it’s best to stick with neutral colors in white or beige color schemes.

 

• Refinish Hardwood Floors

Laminate wood flooring can potentially reduce a homes value since a buyer will see the cost of having it torn out. It is better to refinish the existing hardwood floors or new but inexpensive wall to wall carpet.

 

YOUR Next Project

Take time this winter to consider what home improvement projects are necessary to keep your family warm. Perhaps you need to replace a drafty door or leaking window.  Fauser Home Improvement is available year round to complete your job. We are licensed, bonded, insured, have references, and over two decades of experience. It's always our pleasure to provide you with a FREE ESTIMATE. Give a call or shoot a text to (309) 792-3122, Find us on Facebook, Send an email FauserHI@yahoo.com, or visit us online at www.FauserHI.com. Please remember to check our blog often for weekly home improvement tips.