Weatherizing your home can save you money on your annual energy bills but it can also help to prevent costly insurance claims. Below are some tips to help provide safety and comfort all season.
Avoid Ice Dams – Ensure the roof has adequate ventilation to avoid ice blockages. In the winter, warm, moist air seeps into the attic from the living space below. if the heat is not ventilated, it can build up on the underside of the roof and cause snowmelt. As a result, water runs down the roof to the eave, where it can refreeze into an “ice-dam.” Water will then back-up under the roof shingles and potentially leak into you home.
Close the Fireplace Damper – Keep your fireplace damper closed unless a fire is burning. Keeping the damper open is like keeping a window wide open during the winter. An open damper allows warm air to go right up the chimney.
Avoid Heat Build-Up – Ensure the roof has adequate ventilation to reduce heat buildup during the summer. Good attic ventilation reduces cooling costs and prolongs shingle life.
Keep the Air Flowing – Make sure that rugs, drapes or furniture are not blocking airflow from registers.
Roof Ventilation – Ensure the roof has adequate ventilation to avoid ice blockages. In the winter, warm, moist air seeps into the attic from the living space below. If heat is not ventilated, it can build up on the underside of the roof and cause snowmelt. As a result, water runs down the roof to the eave, where it can refreeze into an “ice-dam.” Water will then back-up under the roof shingles and potentially leak into you home
Check your ductwork for air leaks, especially at joints. Start by sealing air leaks using mastic sealant or metal tape and insulate all the ducts that you can access (usually those in attics, crawlspaces, unfinished basements and garages).
Talk to your agent at Professional Underwriters today to discuss Home protections.