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3 Projects to Get Your Home Ready For Winter In Fort Lauderdale

December 14, 2016

Winter is coming. Are you ready? Here are 3 things you can do in Fort Lauderdale 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 bills. And even if the Fort Lauderdale winter may be mild, fixing drafty rooms can also keep your house cool in the summer. You can maximize your home’s insulation and minimize drafts by:

  • Putting in extra insulation to your attic and/or crawlspace. Talk with a professional to learn if your current situation is up to snuff.

  • Examining your doors and windows for any gaps or leaks that you find.

  • Putting in energy-efficient window coverings like Polywood® plantation shutters with integrated weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate nearly 70% better than a common wood shutter and repel up to 30 degrees of airflow.

  • Getting a home audit to see how air is escaping your house and what extra steps you can take to fix it.

Fort Lauderdale exercise room with shuttered windows.

2. Go on the offensive against water damage

Water damage can dampen your winter fun. Before the temperature drops too low or the wet season starts, take preventative measures to keep water moving where it should, rather than ending up where it might damage your home. Take a look at what you can do:

  • Clean your gutters of any leaves or debris so that any precipitation can flow through them. Obstructed gutters can lead to dams which can damage your roof or cause water to leak through your ceiling.

  • Make sure your pipes are heated since frozen water pipes may rupture and result in major damage to your home. Hinging on your climate and home, you may want to consult a professional about insulating pipes near the exterior of your home or even wrapping heat tape around them. Remember to keep your thermostat at at least 55° on chilly nights, especially if you’re out of town.

3. Get Professional Inspections

You need to ensure that your home is running in perfect shape when winter begins. Annual inspections of key systems in the home can make sure yours is safe and energy efficient.

  • Heating, AC, and water heater. Your heating system and water heater are some of the most active energy hogs 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 get rid of buildup.

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

Fort Lauderdale mantle with plantation shutters.

Relax and Enjoy This Winter

Once your house is properly equipped for winter, you can enjoy everything the season offers in Fort Lauderdale, from a drink by the fireplace to game nights with friends. And if you’re looking for a new look for your home this winter, get in touch with us to discuss window treatments such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any room in your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Fort Lauderdale at 561-440-8535 for a complimentary in-home consultation.