6 Weatherproofing Tasks to Take Care of Yourself (Plus Resources to Help)

Taking care of your home so it can withstand harsh weather is crucial in maintaining its longevity. The effects of changing seasons can take a toll on your house if left unchecked. Let’s break down the most critical tasks that you can manage yourself, ensuring your home remains cozy and energy-efficient throughout the year.

From insulating attics to sealing cracks and gaps, let’s dive into how you can weatherproof your home effectively with a dash of DIY spirit!

1. Stop Drafts in Their Tracks with Draft Stoppers

Nobody likes a draft sneaking up on them, especially not at home. Using draft stoppers at door bottoms and window sills is an easy yet effective way to halt those chilly breezes in their tracks.

If you’re feeling crafty, you could even make your own draft stoppers out of socks, old towels, or clothes. It’s all about keeping the cozy in and the cold out!

2. Sealing Door & Window Gaps with Foam-Tite Weatherseals

This is where those pesky drafts find their way in! Sealing off doors and windows with Foam-Tite weather seals can help maintain a comfortable indoor climate. Even better, you can opt for kerf mounted weatherseals, which fit into the door or window grooves to create a tight seal when it’s closed.

You’ll need the weatherstripping material and basic tools like a tape measure, saw, screwdriver, and some DIY dedication. It might sound a lot but the result is worth it for that extra layer of home protection.

3. Insulate Your Attic for an Energy-Saving Home

Your attic, believe it or not, can be a great escape route for heat. Insulating your attic properly is a doable task that can increase your home’s energy efficiency significantly. It aids in keeping your house warm during winter and cooler during summer months. The task may require time and effort but the savings on your utility bills make it well worth it!

4. Prevent Winter Woes by Insulating Pipes

Maybe you’ve been there before – waking up on a freezing morning only to find your pipes have frozen overnight. It’s an unsettling experience, to say the least. Insulating pipes is an inexpensive and simple task that could avert a potentially frustrating situation.

Some foam insulation, foam pipe sleeves, aluminum tape, and a bit of time are all it takes to give your pipes the warmth they need to prevent bursting or water shortage.

5. Install Weather Stripping: A Small Change for Big Savings

Weatherstripping is a cost-effective way to seal air leaks around building components such as doors or windows. When properly installed, it could help shave off 5% to 10% off your energy bill. This may not seem like much but in the long run, it adds up to worthwhile savings. The seemingly small DIY task also helps keep your indoor environment more comfortable.

6. Caulk Cracks and Gaps

Check your home for cracks or gaps, particularly around windows and door frames. Once you spot them, it’s time to caulk. Caulking is a relatively easy DIY project that can help keep external weather conditions from creeping into your home. Plus, it aids in preventing pests from finding small entries into your place.

DIY Resources for Easy and Effective Weatherproofing

You’re not alone in tackling these weatherproofing tasks. Plenty of resources are available to help you make your home more energy-efficient and cozy:

• Energy Star: Check out their detailed guidance on improving your home’s energy efficiency.
• Department of Energy: They offer useful tips for sealing air leaks and insulating your home.
• Home improvement stores: Ask about workshops or classes.

Remember, the goal is to arm yourself with information to help you weatherproof your home effectively.

Weatherproofing your house doesn’t have to be daunting or too costly. With these straightforward tasks and DIY spirit, you can make effective improvements that keep the comfort in and the harsh weather out. Your home will thank you, and so will your energy bill!