Florida Winter Home Prep: 8 Essential Tips for a Cozy Home
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Dylan McLeod
Dylan McLeod is a top producing real estate agent and the owner/team lead of The McLeod Team, a rapidly growing Team of Real Estate professionals serv...
Dylan McLeod is a top producing real estate agent and the owner/team lead of The McLeod Team, a rapidly growing Team of Real Estate professionals serv...
Winter in Florida may not bring snow, but did you know temperatures can drop surprisingly low? As a Florida homeowner, preparing your home for colder weather is crucial. Discover eight practical tips to keep your space warm and welcoming.
1. Insulate & Seal for Efficiency
Begin by insulating your home—a simple step with profound impacts. Beyond comfort, did you know that proper insulation can lead to remarkable savings, reducing energy bills by up to 30%? Sealing those tiny gaps is an investment that pays off in both coziness and cost-effectiveness.
2. Protecting Plants & Gardens
As Floridians, we're lucky to enjoy lush greenery and swaying palm trees all year long but especially cold winter can pose challenges for plants. If temperatures are to drop below 40 degrees, consider covering your plants, to shield the plant and their roots from freezing.
Remember, when covering your plants in Florida:
- Use materials like frost cloth, burlap, or old blankets to cover your plants. These materials provide insulation while allowing some airflow.
- Avoid plastic covers. They can create a greenhouse effect and overheat the plants during the day.
- Water your plants before covering them. Moist soil retains heat better than dry soil and helps protect the roots from freezing.
- Uncover your plants during the day to allow them access to sunlight. This prevents overheating and allows the plants to breathe.
3. Checking HVAC Systems
urprisingly, many Floridians overlook the importance of HVAC maintenance. A well-maintained system is not just a comfort booster but can also save you from unexpected chilly nights. Make sure your system performs its best in advance, so you can keep warm when it counts.
4. Securing Windows & Doors
Drafty windows and doors can be silent contributors to heat loss. Uncover simple fixes, such as weatherstripping and proper sealing, to keep your home snug and energy-efficient.
5. Optimizing Sunlight Exposure
Leverage the sunshine state strategically to naturally warm your home during winter. From adjusting window coverings to calculated furniture placement, make the most of the sunlight to enhance both comfort and energy efficiency.
5. Preparing Outdoor Spaces
Florida winters invite outdoor activities, but the cool weather requires thoughtful preparation. From fire pits to warm lighting, make the most of your exterior areas, ensuring they remain enjoyable even on cooler days.
5. Essential Roof Maintenance
Your roof isn't just a shelter; it's a critical component of insulation. Learn about proactive measures to safeguard your roof, ensuring it continues to contribute to a comfortable living environment.
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