INDUSTRY INSIGHT
INSURANCE
SPONSORED CONTENT
HOME WEATHERIZATION TIPS
A
From Patrick Geary
s cooler weather rolls into our region, it’s important for
homeowners to consider weatherization, or weatherproofing, of
their home. Weatherization is particularly important for those of
us who live in the northeast, as it offers protection from such elements as
snow and freezing rain. These home weatherization tips will help you save
money and energy on your home heating costs, while still keeping your
family comfortable throughout the season. They will also help to protect
your home from unnecessary damage during the winter months.
CLEAN OFF YOUR ROOF
Make sure your roof is as clear as possible before the winter months roll
around. Leaves and twigs can freeze together in the winter, weighing down
your roof, and have the potential to really do some damage. Also, you will
want to clean your gutters of any debris that is holding water and could
cause your gutters to break or fall when the water freezes. While you are
there (or your contractor), it is a good idea to look for any possible structural
damage to the roof and take care of it before the snow flies.
SERVICE YOUR HEATING SYSTEM
Your heating system is one of the most expensive appliances in your
home, so it’s important to take care of it. Have your furnace serviced by
a professional every year and keep the filters clean. Change your filters
every 30-60 days to maximize efficiency.
INSULATE YOUR HOME’S PIPING SYSTEM
Pipes can quickly freeze when the temperature drops, causing them to
rupture. To help avoid this, wrap pipes in a protective coating (available
at most home improvement stores). Also make sure to take your outdoor
hose off the exterior bib to prevent it from freezing or bursting.
SEAL YOUR FIREPLACE
If you have a fireplace and don’t use it, plug and seal the chimney. Not
doing so allows the warm air from your heating system to escape. That
raises the cost of your heating bill and leaves your home feeling chilly.
CHECK YOUR INSULATION
Your home’s insulation is one of the best tools for retaining warmth
during the winter. Heat rises to your attic, and if you do not have proper
insulation, much of that heat could be escaping. Check your attic for
proper insulation and whether there are any holes in it. Replace or fill
where necessary. Doing so will keep you warm and cozy all winter.
CHECK YOUR HOME FOR CRACKS AND AIR LEAKS
Air penetration is one of the leading energy suckers in your home.
Carefully examine your windows and doors for any cracks in the
framework. These could be creating a draft. To fix, use caulking or
weather-stripping to seal the surface and make it airtight. Fixing these
minor problems can make a large difference in your energy bill.
INSURANCE COVERAGE
Perhaps the best protection for your home is proper insurance
coverage. Home insurance is designed to protect against damage to the
house itself, or to possessions in the home. Home insurance also provides
liability coverage against accidents in the home or on the property.
Farmers Insurance also offers an auto/home discount. Please contact
me to get your free, no-strings-attached quote. I would welcome the
opportunity to meet with you and discuss home, mobile home, vacation
home, and/or renter’s policies, or anyplace else you might call home.
This Industry Insight was written by Patrick Geary.
Patrick Geary is the owner of Cornerstone Wealth Advisory
and Insurance Services, LLC., located in Erie, PA. Our clients
come first. Everyone is treated with respect, integrity,
and honesty. Through a long-term commitment to these
principles, we strive to be known as a company that builds
solid relationships. Mr. Geary is licensed in PA, NY, and OH
to provide individual and commercial insurance coverage.
For a free quote call 814-315-2700 or email pgeary@
farmersagent.com.
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