If you are a homeowner living in Massachusetts, you are no stranger to the harsh winter months. Between freezing temperatures, speeding winds, and piling snow, your home is exposed to extreme weather conditions that leave your utilities working overtime. As you pump up the heat and increase your hot water usage, you may notice that your utility bills are also rising. Unfortunately, you cannot control the weather, but you can make upgrades around your home to make it more efficient and cost-effective. In this blog, we will discuss four of the most effective renovations you can plan to reduce your Winter utility bills, save you money, and protect your home from the elements.
Turning a shed into a livable space comes with its own set of challenges, particularly legalities. This guide will explain the steps to help revamp your shed into a functional living area within the bounds of the law.
Energy providers, such as Eversource and National Grid, calculate your monthly utility costs based on your energy meter readings. These meters will record your energy usage throughout the month, including from your heat, hot water heater, and other electronic appliances. At the end of the month, your service provider will use this data to determine your final bill. During the winter, many homes should expect to see an increase in their bills due to higher usage. As the temperature drops and the daylight shortens, your home requires more energy to keep it warm and well-lit. This additional energy usage will reflect on your bill, resulting in higher costs.
Drafty windows are one of the biggest culprits of energy waste during the winter months. Older, damaged, or cracked windows can cause the heat in your home to leak into the outdoors, causing your heating system to work harder and use more energy. By replacing them with more energy-efficient styles, you can prevent heat loss, reduce your energy usage, and save money on your bills. To learn about how scheduling a Winter window replacement can reduce your utility bills, contact Precision Remodeling & Construction for a consultation.
Although you may think that carpets would help with insulation, they can actually trap cold air in your home. Older carpets that are worn, stained or damaged may also be retaining moisture, which can lead to mold and toxins getting into the air. As a result, you may need to turn up the heat or invest in an electric dehumidifier. Instead of spending money on these temporary solutions, consider replacing old carpeting with hardwood or tile flooring. These materials can better regulate the temperature in your home and last for decades, saving you both time and money.
Similar to windows, doors are also prone to letting heat escape from your home. This is especially true with main entries, which are opened and closed frequently throughout the day. To determine if the Winter is the right time to replace your doors, check for drafts around the door frames and hinges. If you feel a breeze, notice any light passing through, or hear whistling sounds, these may be signs that your door may be ready for an upgrade. From installing new front doors to glass sliding doors, making this simple swap can make a big difference on your utility statements.
As proven by the laws of physics, heat rises, and cold air sinks. This makes the lowest rooms in your home susceptible to over-using your home’s healing and cooling systems. In the Winter, unfinished basements become one of the coldest parts of your home, leading to a significant loss of heat and electricity. Finishing your basement and installing energy-efficient flooring, walls, and appliances can greatly reduce these costs. In addition, you are opening up more space for storage, entertainment, or living space, making it a win from all fronts.
At Precision Remodeling & Construction, we help build homes that can withstand the toughest winters in Massachusetts. With our wide range of remodeling and construction services, we can help make your home more energy-efficient, comfortable, and cost-effective. From window and door replacements to interior remodeling, our design-and-build services will keep your home and your bank account comfortable for years to come. To learn more about our services and to schedule a free consultation, fill out our online form or call us at 781-631-7555.
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