The Best Custom Shutters, Blinds & Shades!
Proudly Serving the Charlotte metro area
Ovation wood shutters by a fireplace

3 Ways to Winterize Your Home In Charlotte

December 14, 2016

Winter is coming. Are you prepared? Here are 3 projects you can do in Charlotte to prep for the coming season so you’re able to enjoy all the things that winter brings with it.

Plantation shutters in a corner window 

1. Lessen drafts

Drafts in your room mean higher energy bills. And even if our Charlotte winter is mild, servicing drafty areas can also make sure your home stays cool in the summer. You can maximize your home’s insulation and minimize drafts by:

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

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

  • Putting in energy-efficient window treatments like Polywood® plantation shutters with built-in weatherstripping. Polywood shutters insulate nearly 70% better than a common wood shutter and block close to 30 degrees of airflow through the window.

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

Charlotte fitness room 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 precautionary measures to keep water flowing where it was designed to go, rather than ending up where it might damage your house. Here’s what you can do:

  • Clear your gutters out so that water and melted snow can flow through them. Blocked gutters can lead to dams which can harm your roof or result in water leaking inside.

  • Keep your pipes heated because frozen water pipes can rupture and result in major damage to your home. Hinging on your climate and home, you’ll need to speak with a professional about insulating pipes next to exterior walls or even wrapping heat tape around them. Be sure to keep your thermostat at no lower than 55° at all times, especially if you’re away from home.

3. Get Your Home Inspected

You need to make sure your house is running in perfect form when winter comes. Annual checks of the most important systems in the home can make sure yours is safe and energy efficient.

  • Ventilation and water heater. Your HVAC and water heater are two of the biggest energy hogs in your home. An HVAC and water heater inspection will protect your home from any mishap or inefficiency. Prior to winter is also the perfect time to have your water heater flushed out to prevent blockage.

  • Chimney. Inspections allow you to make use of the ambiance of your fireplace worry-free.

Charlotte fireplace with white shutters.

Relax and Enjoy This Winter

Once your house is prepared for winter, you can enjoy everything it has to offer in Charlotte, from a coffee by the fireplace to gatherings with family. And if you’re looking for a stylish new look for your space this winter, get in touch with us to discuss window treatments such as shutters, barn doors, or blinds for any part of your home. Get started by calling Sunburst Shutters Charlotte at 980-231-1116 for a complimentary in-home consultation.