You might think that the winter months are a time when all of your home improvements need to be put on hold. In reality, there are many steps that you can take to improve the overall appearance of your home while also increasing its value. In fact, here is a look at five simple things you can do to improve your Philadelphia home this winter.
Improvement #1: Install Storm Windows
If you don’t have storm windows installed in your home, now is the time to make a change. Interior storm windows can be easily installed at any time and are relatively inexpensive. If you have enough room in your budget, exterior storm windows are a better option. While interior storm windows must be either fully installed or removed completely, exterior storm windows are permanent and can be raised or lowered to let in the perfect amount of air.
When installing storm windows, you can choose from between plastic or glass. Glass is more expensive than plastic, but glass is also clearer and less prone to scratching. Take the pros and cons of each material into consideration when determining which is right for you.
Improvement #2: Extend Your Gutter Downspouts
Adding extensions to your gutter’s downspouts helps to carry the melted snow and ice away from your home. This help protect your foundation from excessive water and freezing. Ideally, your downspout extensions should run at least three to four feet away from your foundation.
Improvement #3: Install a Reverse Switch on Your Ceiling Fans
Installing a reverse switch allows you to change the direction of your ceiling fan. By switching your fan to rotate in a clockwise direction, you push the warm air that rises back down into your living space. This is particularly helpful in homes with tall ceilings.
Improvement #4: Add More Insulation to the Right Places
Insulation goes a long way toward keeping warm air in your house while keeping the cold air outside where it belongs. Most experts recommend having at least 12 inches of insulation in the attic. It is also beneficial to place insulation around your water pipes. Not only will this help prevent air from escaping, but it will also keep your pipes warm so the water inside does not freeze.
Improvement #5: Prune Your Bushes
Believe it or not, winter is a great time to prune your bushes, trees and plants. Pruning them during the wintertime ensures they have an attractive shape once the leaves start budding. Generally speaking, this is a task that should wait until late into the winter and just before the new spring growth begins. After spending a few months in a dormant stage, a fresh cutting and shaping is just what your plants need to get a great start in the spring.
