House Renovation Tips: Making Your Home Safer in Winter
Fixing drafts around window frames is one of the house renovations that will protect your home in winter.
Have you noticed increased moisture and mold growth around your windows and walls? Are your light fixtures always flickering? Do you find it difficult to heat your home?
If you answered yes to any of these questions, it might be that your home is needing some TLC to see it through winter. Read what you can do to make your home healthy, safe, and warm this winter with these general maintenance and house renovation tips.
Look for the Signs of Heat Loss
Heat loss is one of the most common problems homeowners experience in winter and can be a sign that your home is under-insulated or not adequately ventilated to allow excess moisture to escape. Some of the symptoms of heat loss include:
- High energy bills
- Cold walls, ceilings, and walls
- Moisture or mold on windows and walls
- Drafts around window frames and doorways
- Ice dams on the roof
- Water leaks
- Frozen pipes
- Insects or rodents inside the house
Check Your Home’s Wiring System
Electrical fires are one of the most significant hazards in winter, with the added use of lighting and heating appliances. Some of the most common causes of electrical fires include:
- Outdated wiring
- Faulty and old electrical outlets
- DIY home renovations
- Deterioration of cables
- Loose connections
- Overloaded outlets and extension cords
How a Building Contractor Can Help
A general contractor can help you insulate and ventilate your home by installing higher R-value-rated insulation in attics, windows, doors, or as part of your basement finishing or garage renovation project. A contractor can also install ceiling vents or fans in areas where there is excess moisture, such as in kitchens or bathrooms.
It's recommended that you hire a licensed contractor to conduct all electrical inspections and installations.
Reduce Energy and Save
Need help with your home renovation costs? All Okanagan residents can warm up their homes and save money with the CleanBC Better Homes and Home Renovation Rebate Program. Administered by BC Hydro, Fortis BC, and the Province of BC, the program provides rebates to those improving their home’s energy efficiency with upgrades to space and water heating, insulation, windows, doors, and more.
For more information, read our Home Renovation Guide: Which Insulation is Best for You?
Want to make your home more energy efficient? Contact Kelowna’s Rafter 4K Contracting to see how we can help with your home improvement project. We have more than 25 years of experience with interior and exterior renovations, bathroom renovation, home additions, legal suites, and more.
