Day 4 HomeWinterization

If heat is escaping your home, winter will find it

Winter warmth should never come at the cost of safety—and that’s why attics, insulation, and chimneys deserve attention before the cold sets in. Your attic, insulation, chimney, and fireplace play a major role in comfort, efficiency, and safety during colder months. Because these areas are often out of sight, problems can go unnoticed until energy bills spike—or worse, a safety issue occurs.

Insulation If heat is escaping through the attic, your heating system works harder—and winter finds every weak spot.

*Because hot air rises into the attic, a disproportionately larger amount of heat is lost there than in other parts of the house. Like a winter hat that keeps your head warm, adequate attic insulation will prevent warm indoor air from escaping. Attic insulation should be 12 inches thick in homes located in cold climates.

*Storm doors and windows should be installed to insulate the house and protect against bad weather.

Chimney & Fireplace

Fireplaces add comfort and charm, but they also require proper maintenance. A neglected chimney can lead to fire hazards, smoke intrusion, or carbon monoxide risks.

*The chimney should be inspected for nesting animals trying to escape the cold. Squirrels and raccoons have been known to enter chimneys for this reason.

*The damper should open and close with ease. Smoke should rise up the chimney when the damper is open. If it doesn't, this means that there is an obstruction in the chimney that must be cleared before the fireplace can be used.

*A chimney-cleaning service professional should clean the chimney if it has not been cleaned for several years.

*The damper should be closed when the fireplace is not in use. An open damper might not be as obvious to the homeowner as an open window, but it can allow a significant amount of warm air to escape.

*Glass doors can be installed in fireplaces and wood stoves to provide an extra layer of insulation.

Many attic and chimney issues aren’t obvious until winter stress exposes them. A professional home inspection can help identify concerns before they become costly or dangerous.

At Eagle Vision Inspection Services we help homeowners protect their homes—season after season.