Getting Your Home Ready for Summertime

Spring flowers and afternoon showers let you know the snow has cleared and it’s time for warmer weather. Inspecting and preparing your home for the summer heat can help you combat rising utility costs and avoid surprise repairs. Not only will this make you more comfortable during the warm weather months, but it will free up your time to enjoy summer activities and help prevent big repair bills that can cut into your budget. Here are some of the most important things to consider when preparing your home for the season. 

Attic Insulation

One of the first things you’ll want to have checked is your attic insulation. New North Carolina building codes require R-38 for the ceiling/attic space in a home. Insulation settles over time and it can drastically impact utility costs. If your HVAC is working extra hard to keep you kind of comfortable, you may need more insulation. Look around in your attic. If you can see the tops of the floor joists through the insulation, then you probably need more. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) estimates that homeowners can save an average of 15 percent on heating and cooling costs with adequate insulation.   

Check Your Siding

Inspecting the siding on your home is a task that shouldn’t be overlooked. Siding not only protects your house against the elements, but it also plays a crucial role in insulating your home. Most siding has a lifespan between 20 and 40 years, depending on the material. Unfortunately, people often overlook the age of siding when they buy a home. If your siding is missing small pieces or seems dilapidated, then you should consider having it repaired or replaced. 

Windows & Doors

Drafty windows and doors can cost more than you think. While there are plenty of ways to check for drafts, the easiest starts with a simple visible check. Look for light coming in around closed doors and especially near the threshold at the bottom. Feel the inside of your door on a hot day to see if it’s transferring heat. You can check windows with a simple candle test. Holding a candle flame near window seams will show you if air is moving. You should also check for areas missing caulk or putty.

Roof & Gutters

Your roof and gutter system go hand in hand because they help create your home’s crucial building envelope. Plus, they are part of your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Cleaning your gutters prevents water from backing up where it can damage the roof and soffit. This type of damage opens your home up for big energy losses. Seasonal maintenance and small repairs can prevent the need to replace major systems in your home. 

Atlas Construction

If you find areas of concern in your North Carolina home, let the professionals at Atlas Construction perform an inspection and recommend a course of action. Our skilled technicians are dedicated to installing quality products that maximize performance and help you lower energy costs.