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3 Projects to Prepare Your Home For Winter In Fort Myers

December 14, 2016

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

Plantation shutters in a corner window 

1. Lessen drafts

Drafts in your space mean higher energy costs. And even if the Fort Myers winter might be mild, servicing drafty areas can also keep your home cool come summer. You can improve your home’s insulation and eliminate drafts by:

  • Installing extra insulation to your crawlspace and attic. Speak with a professional to find out if your current insulation is up to snuff.

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

  • Putting in energy-efficient window coverings such as Polywood® plantation shutters with built-in weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate up to 70% better than a regular wood shutter and impede close to 30° of airflow.

  • Getting an energy audit to find how air may be escaping your house and what extra steps you can take to fix it.

Fort Myers home gym with shuttered windows.

2. Go on the offensive against water damage

Water damage can dampen your winter plans. Before the temperature dips or a wet winter season begins, take preventative measures to keep water flowing where it was designed to go, instead of ending up where it might damage your home. Here’s what you can do:

  • Clear your gutters of blockage so that any precipitation can flow through them. Blocked gutters can result in dams which can damage your roof or result in water leaking into your house.

  • Make sure your pipes are warm since frozen water pipes can burst and cause major trouble for your house. Hinging 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. Be sure to keep your thermostat at no lower than 55 degrees on chilly nights, especially if you’re out of town.

3. Take Advantage of Home Inspections

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

  • Heating, AC, and water heater. Your ventilation system and water heater are some of the most active energy sinks in your home. An HVAC and water heater inspection will safeguard you from malfunction. Before winter sets in is also a great time to have your water heater flushed out to prevent buildup.

  • Chimney. Inspections let you make use of the ambiance of your fireplace while being confident that your chimney is safe to run.

Fort Myers mantle with plantation shutters.

Relax and Enjoy This Winter

Once your home is ready for winter, you can enjoy all the season offers in Fort Myers, from a coffee by the fireplace to parties with guests. And if you’re in the market for a stylish new look for your space this winter, contact us to discuss window treatments such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any part of your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Fort Myers at 239-208-6577 for a complimentary in-home consultation.