5 Ways to Weatherize Your House and Save Big

It seems like just as soon as the scorching temperatures melt away it's time to gear up for winter.  You've probably figured out that your house isn't perfect.  Even newer homes are cursed with cracks and openings throughout that let your heating air seep outside.  While some states, like Georgia, are even collecting money for low income weatherization projects, you probably won't qualify for most of the grants floating around right now.  But even with a moderate investment, you'll be coming out far ahead in energy savings. 

Get your house in weatherproof shape with these conditioning tips to keep the hot air where it belongs:

1. Inside Insulation
It's nice to have a roof over your head, but it won't do much against bone-chilling winters without a protective layer of insulation between it and your house.  You need at least six inches in the attic to make a difference.  Insulation is like a giant down coat for your home--the thicker and better quality varieties keep the inside toastier.  Don't attempt to do it yourself without some guidance from a seasoned homeowner or contractor. 

Also make sure you look between the walls--some homes actually have no insulation between the exterior surface and sheet rock making it a virtually peg board for air to circulate in and out at will.

2. Strip Sense
When the first cold front hits, put your hand around all the windows and doors in your house.  You may be surprised to feel how much colder it is and even feel a couple of drafty patches.  The best way to combat the cold creeping in front door and window cracks is with a trusty roll of weather stripping.  It looks like glorified foam tape.  You'll need to ask someone knowledgeable about what type of stripping is best for each surface, as you will probably need more than one roll. 

3. Caulking Cracks
Depending on where the opening is you may want to use either an expandable foam sealant or caulk to crack down on the cracks.  Caulk works best around windowsills and electrical plates while expanding foam does well in larger cracks not directly exposed to water and sunlight.

4. Weather the Storm
Get a storm window kit to protect leaky windows from vicious storms.  You can buy kits from a local hardware store and apply directly to the outside of your window.  The kit includes a plastic film that is attached with a hair dryer--it seals a leaky window from heavy rain.  If your house is older, you may benefit from replacing your windows altogether.

5. Dangle the Drapes
Just as in blistery summers, hanging heavy curtains (not the sheer frilly ones for show) will prevent the drafty cold from invading the house.  It may not allow as much natural light, but you won't have to sport a parka indoors. 

For more information on prepping the house for wintery weather check out the experts at DoItYourself.com.