How to keep your house properly insulated this winter

Source: Pixabay
It’s that time of year again when the cold weather starts to set in, and many people are wondering how they can keep their homes warm and comfortable all winter long. One of the best ways to do this is by making sure your home is properly insulated. Here are a few tips on how to do just that.
1) Check your windows and doors for any gaps or cracks
If you find any, seal them up with caulk or weather stripping. This will help to keep the cold air out and the heat in. Also, if you have any gaps around your electrical outlets, seal those as well. You can use special outlet seals or just use clear packing tape.
Additionally, if you have any gaps around your windows or doors, you can use clear packing tape to cover those as well. Keep in mind that the tape will need to be replaced periodically.
2) Keep your roof maintained
Making sure your roof is in good shape is important for keeping your home insulated during the winter. If you have any missing or damaged shingles, it’s important to repair them as soon as possible. You can also add additional insulation to your attic to help keep the heat in. There are a few different types of insulation that you can use, such as fiberglass batting, foam board, or spray foam. Whichever type you choose, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for installation. If you’re looking for roofing in Harrisburg, for example, you can find a variety of roofing companies that can help you with this project. Simply do a search online or on your local yellow pages.
3) Add insulation to your walls
If you have an unfinished basement, you can insulate your walls by adding fiberglass batting or spray foam. If your home is already finished, you can add insulation by removing the baseboards and adding fiberglass batting between the studs. Be sure to staple or tape the batting in place so it doesn’t shift. You can then put the baseboards back in place.
Start by insulating the exterior walls of your home, as these are the ones that are most likely to let cold air in. You can also insulate the interior walls if you’d like, but it’s not necessary.
How to keep your home at a proper temperature
1) Get a programmable thermostat
If you don’t already have one, getting a programmable thermostat is a great way to help keep your home at a comfortable temperature all winter long. You can set it to lower the temperature when you’re not home and raise it again just before you arrive. This will help to save energy and money. Plus, it’s much more convenient than having to adjust the temperature manually all the time.
2) Use space heaters wisely
If you do use space heaters, be sure to place them in safe locations where they won’t tip over. Also, don’t put them too close to flammable objects such as curtains or furniture. When you’re not using them, be sure to turn them off so they don’t continue to use energy.
Also, be sure to keep your fireplace clean and free of ashes. If you have a gas fireplace, have it serviced regularly to make sure it’s operating safely and efficiently.
3) Close off unused rooms
If you have any rooms in your home that you don’t use often, close the doors to them so they don’t need to be heated. This will help to save energy and money. In addition, if you have a fireplace in your home, be sure to close the damper when it’s not in use.
4) Dress warmly

Image by Alina Kuptsova from Pixabay
If you dress warmly, you’ll be more comfortable and won’t need to rely on your heating system as much. Wear layers of clothing so you can easily take them off if you start to feel too warm.
5) Use draft stoppers
If you have any drafts in your home, be sure to seal them up with caulk or weather stripping. You can also use draft stoppers to help keep the cold air out. These are simple devices that you place at the bottom of doors to block drafts.
Insulating your home properly is one of the best ways to keep it warm and comfortable during the winter. By following these tips, you can ensure that your home is well-insulated and that you’re using energy efficiently. Keep in mind that insulation is an important part of keeping your home in good condition, so it’s worth taking the time to do it right. Don’t forget to also have your furnace serviced regularly to ensure it’s running properly.