Preparing For Winter
Winter
is coming, and with it comes the inevitable higher heating bills.
This can be a special concern in older homes like those in Chestnut
Hill and the surrounding neighborhoods. Older houses are often more
energy-efficient than one might think—in an era of simpler
technologies for heating and cooling, builders often paid more attention
to issues like the thermal characteristics of building materials
such as stone or brick, and the placement, size, and number of windows.
But it’s never too late to tackle the many simple things that
can be done to save on energy costs and prepare your home for winter
without compromising the historic integrity of the building.
Windows
& Doors
Make sure doors and windows close snugly. Check weatherstripping
and replace any that is damaged or missing. Replace any missing
or broken glass. Install storm windows and be sure that they still
fit well. Check caulking around window and door frames. Use rope
caulk, which can be removed in the spring, to seal around loose
window sashes. On double-hung windows, use the sash locks to bring
the upper and lower sashes together to prevent drafts. Consider
using interior storm windows, as these are excellent at preventing
heat loss, are easy to install, and can be virtually unnoticeable.
Drafts
& Air Leaks
In addition to sealing around window and door openings, look for
other areas where air infiltration can occur. Some common places
are light switches and electrical outlets, and wall openings for
bath, kitchen, and dryer vents. Keep in mind, though, that old houses
were designed to “breathe,” so you should not seal the
house completely. This will prevent condensation problems, which
can lead to wood rot, mortar damage, mold, or reduced effectiveness
of insulation materials.
Attic
& Insulation
Make sure that attic insulation is in good condition, as a large
portion of heat loss is through the attic and roof. While in the
attic, check for signs of roof leaks.
Roof
& Gutters
Use binoculars or a sturdy ladder to check your roof for any slipped
or missing shingles, tiles, or slates. Have a roofer make any needed
repairs. Be sure gutters are free of leaves, twigs, and other debris,
and that downspouts run freely; this will help to prevent the accumulation
of ice and snow which can back up under the roofing materials and
cause damage.
Heating
System
Have a professional inspect and clean your furnace or boiler to
insure that it is operating safely and efficiently. Replace or clean
any filters regularly.
Plumbing
Find the inside shut-off valves for any outdoor faucets and turn
the water off. After the valve is shut off, turn the outside tap
on to allow any water left in the pipes to drain. If there is no
inside shut-off valve, insulate the outside tap to prevent freezing.
Be sure that any pipes in unheated areas are either drained or insulated
to prevent freezing, which can lead to burst pipes.
Chimney
& Fireplaces
Make sure that chimneys are clean; remove any build-up of soot or
creosote. Make sure that flue damper provides a good seal so that
heat is not lost up the chimney. Only open the damper when the fireplace
is in use.
Smoke
& CO Detectors
This is a good time to check that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
are working properly.
Walkways
and Steps
Inspect sidewalks and walkways for cracks and other damage. Check
that they drain water away from the foundation. In ice and snow,
avoid using de-icing salts as much as possible, as these can cause
damage to concrete, masonry, and brick. Sand or fireplace ash can
be good substitutes, but since they can also be carried into the
house on boots and shoes be sure to have a mat to clean up before
entering the house. Check that steps and handrails are in good repair.
Trees
Check for dead branches on trees, especially those that overhang
the house, driveways, and walks. Snow, ice, and winter winds can
cause these branches to fall and damage buildings and cars or injure
passers-by.
If
you have questions, suggestions for topics we might address, or
know of materials that have been helpful to you, please let us know.
You can call the Resource Center at 215 247-0417 or e-mail
us.
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