As temperatures on the Lower Mainland begin to fall and the cost for residential electricity continues to rise, many homeowners begin to think about the expense associated with keeping their homes cozy during the winter. Unfortunately, this is often a losing battle because many homes are poorly prepared for cold weather. Drafty windows, leaky roofs, and lack of insulation are all energy-wasting problems that can easily be remedied by the do-it-yourself homeowner. Here are a few tips on weatherizing important areas of your home for winter.
• Roof & guttering. Problems with your roof and gutters can remain hidden until winter, when snow and cold temperatures can cause a situation known as ice damming. An ice dam forms due to uneven surface temperatures on the roof, and causes snowmelt to be forced back up and under shingles and into your home. To guard against ice damming, be sure to replace missing roof shingles or tiles, repair leaks and thoroughly clean out gutters to allow runoff to easily flow away from the home.
• Windows and doors. Old single-pane windows are common culprits of heat loss. If you cannot afford to replace older windows and doors with energy-efficient models now, try methods such as caulking around window and door frames, filling large cracks with expandable spray foam insulation, and applying air blockers like shrink wrap and weatherstripping.
• Attic. In addition to preventing ice dams, adequate attic insulation keeps warm air inside your home. Insulation can easily be rolled between floor joists to boost coverage.
The experts at Crown Roofing LTD can assist you in identifying winter weatherization needs, and provide skilled roof repairs and roof maintenance services throughout Vancouver. Call the roofing contractor you can trust at (877) 907-3066.