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3 Projects to Prepare Your Home For Winter In Atlanta

December 14, 2016

Winter is coming. Are you prepared? Here are 3 projects you can do in Atlanta to prepare for the coming season so you can enjoy everything that winter brings with it.

Plantation shutters in a corner window 

1. Decrease drafts

Drafts in your room mean higher energy bills. And even if our Atlanta winter might be mild, fixing drafty areas can also keep your house cool during the summer. You can increase your home’s insulation and minimize drafts by:

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

  • Testing your windows and doors for leaks and caulking gaps that you find.

  • Putting in energy-efficient window coverings like Polywood® plantation shutters with added weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate nearly 70% more effectively than a normal wood shutter and repel close to 30 degrees of airflow through the window.

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

Atlanta exercise room with shuttered windows.

2. Prevent water damage

Water damage can hose down your winter cheer. Before the temperature drops too low or a wet winter season begins, take precautionary measures to keep water where it belongs, instead of going where it could damage your home. Steps to take include:

  • Clean your gutters of blockage so that water and melted snow can easily run out. Plugged gutters can result in dams which can damage your roof or cause water to leak inside.

  • Keep your pipes heated since frozen water pipes can burst and result in major trouble for your house. Depending on your climate and home, you may want to talk to a professional about insulating pipes next to exterior walls or even wrapping them with heat tape. Remember to keep your thermostat at no lower than 55° on chilly nights, especially if you’re away from home.

3. Get Professional Inspections

When winter comes, you want to make sure your home is running in perfect shape. Yearly inspections of the most important systems in the home can assure that yours is safe and energy efficient.

  • HVAC and water heater. Your ventilation system and water heater are two of the most active energy hogs in your home. An inspection will make sure your systems are efficient and safe. Prior to winter is also an ideal time to get your water heater flushed out to get rid of buildup.

  • Chimney. Inspections let you take advantage of the ambiance of your fireplace worry-free.

Atlanta fireplace with plantation shutters.

Relax and Enjoy This Winter

When your house is ready for winter, you can enjoy everything the season offers in Atlanta, from a drink by the fireplace to gatherings with guests. And if you’re in the mood for a new look for your place this winter, drop us a line to discuss window coverings such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any space in your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Atlanta at 404-962-8517 for a free in-home consultation.