Winter is coming! Is your waterfront home ready?
The weather might not always be predictable every year, but in Maryland, you are likely to get a few feet of snow every few years. Even if there isn’t snow, you’ll likely have days when the weather is freezing cold! On the waterfront, you and your home need protection from the chill. What are the biggest winter challenges for waterfront homes?
Winter Problems to Prevent in Waterfront Homes
Humidity Problems
The humidity level is generally lower in the winter, but even with a beautiful river or bay at your back door, you still need to monitor indoor humidity carefully. The best humidity level to have in your home is between 35-50%. Use a humidity monitor to know whether or not you need a home humidifier during winter.
Pests
Pests like mice and insects like warm, moist places with plenty of food in the winter, such as your home! A new construction home will mainly avoid any entry points for vermin, but you can do your part by keeping your home clean, cleaning up after pets, and preventing animals from invading your trash bins.
Freezing Pipes
All Maryland homes, including waterfront ones, need to prevent frozen pipes, which could cause the pipes to burst. Insulate plumbing pipes exposed to freezing temperatures and insulate exterior hose bibs. If you have a lawn sprinkler system, call for a professional blowout service.
Drafts
Although more likely to show up in an older home, drafts are highly detrimental to your electricity bill and your comfort. Ensure that your windows and doors do not have any spots for cold air to waft into your home. If you notice icicles hanging from your eaves, then your roof needs insulating.
Frigid Winds
It is always colder and windier by the water. Depending on where you are on the Chesapeake Bay, the wind patterns may hit your house more than someone else’s, giving you all the more reason to protect your home from the cold. Your home builder should help you stabilize your home against the wind.
HVAC System Issues
Don’t neglect your HVAC system maintenance! Replace the filter routinely and have a professional inspect it before the dead of winter. Avoid having a broken furnace on the coldest days!
LEARN MORE WITH SHORE-LINE CONSTRUCTION!
At Shore-Line Construction, we know that your home is a reflection of you. That’s why we strive to make each home we build as beautiful as the family who will live there. We work with each of our clients to design a home that fits their needs. The end result is a durable, energy-efficient custom home that the family will enjoy for generations to come. Shore-Line Construction has been serving our customers for over 25 years, and we look forward to the opportunity to help you!
If you’re interested in learning more about what Shore-Line Construction can do for you, check out our website or give us a call at 410-574-6623. Keep up with all of the latest news by following our blog and social media pages on Facebook, YouTube, Pinterest, and Houzz!
