Waukesha County Home

HOMES PLUS DECEMBER 2016 4 O' What Fun It Is To Read! Give a Gift Subscription! Subscriptions make great gifts for all the hard-to-buy-for people on your holiday list. The Freeman is the source for local news in Waukesha County. The Freeman is delivered Tuesday-Saturday. (Waukesha County addresses only.) The Oconomowoc Enterprise is the source for Lake Country news. The Oconomowoc Enterprise is delivered Thursdays. 6 months for $21 or 12 months for $35 (53066 zip code only. Outside of 53066, $43.) Call our Customer Service Department at (262) 542-2500 or www.gmtoday.com/oegift Subscriptions will start after Christmas. 3 months for $39 or 6 months for $72 or visit the publication's website: www.gmtoday.com/wfgift (StatePoint) — This winter, stay ahead of frost and freezing temperatures by taking some easy steps to get your home ready for the cold months ahead. If you're not sure where to start, there are some quick step- by-step directions to get you in the DIY spir- it. 1. How to seal off drafts: Windows and doors are the biggest culprits of drafts in your home, but there are products that make sealing them simple. While product packaging often provides instruction, online videos may be a better resource. For instance, Duck brand provides a step-by- step tutorial for how to seal window drafts with its Roll-On Window Kit and Heavy Duty Weatherstrip Seals, which provide tight barriers to keep warm air in and cold air out. Or, for drafty doors with thick gaps, the Double Draft Seal easily slides onto the bottom of doors to block unwanted chill. Visit duckbrand.com to learn more. 2. How to prevent freezing pipes: Every winter there are billions of dollars in insured losses due to burst pipes and other winter-related damage, according to the Insurance Information Institute. To prevent frozen pipes, it's imperative to drain water from outdoor faucets and garden hoses. Plus, have in-ground sprinkler systems winterized, as well. You can review a quick 4-minute video at thisoldhouse.com, where experts show you how you can do this easi- ly and efficiently. 3. How to clean your gutters: Frozen gutters are another prime source of snow and ice damage. Ice can accumulate on the edge of the roof and prevent melting snow from draining. That's why it's important to clean debris from gutters several times a year. Keep the ladder on a level surface with another person as a spotter. Wear gloves and safety goggles to protect yourself, and drop debris onto a tarp or bucket below. Flush the gutter with a hose to check for proper flow, and finally check down spouts for anything that might be lodged. 4. How to insulate your water heater: Wrapping your water heater with an insu- lated blanket reduces heat loss and saves energy. It's simple: Just measure the cir- cumference of your water heater and cut the blanket to size. Products such like Duck brand's Water Heater Insulation Blanket come with tape for easy installation and it's made of non-irritating recycled cotton, not fiberglass. 5. How to protect outdoor items: High- wind gusts and cool temperatures can wreak havoc. Be sure to store or protect out- door furniture and accessories. Smaller items, such as cushions, umbrellas and drained hoses, should be stored in sheds or basements. Protect larger patio furniture and grills with tarps or custom-fit covers. A roll of strong, all-weather tape can fix any rips or holes you may find along the way. Unlike other tapes, it is designed to with- stand harsh temperatures to hold stronger and longer, ensuring your items will be in great shape for spring grilling season. Visit trextape.com for more information. Five steps to prep your home for winter StatePoint Save energy by sealing windows and keeping out drafts.

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