How to Winterize Your Basement

Temperatures are often colder in a basement and the winter can really do a number on it if you do not take the time to winterize.  To protect your whole home from the cold temps you can winterize the basement.   Here is what you will need:

• Water heater insulation blanket
• Duct tape
• Self-adhesive pipe insulation tape or fiberglass and plastic pipe wrap insulation kit
• Safety goggles
• Heavy-duty gloves
• Fiberglass insulation
• Putty (optional)
• Self-adhesive foam/foil duct insulation
• Window insulation kit
• Hairdryer (if a shrink-to-fit version of window insulation is purchased)

1. Install a water blanket on your water heater.  This will help your home by preventing heat from escaping.  Wrap it around your heater and then use the tape that it came with to secure.
2. Next, you need to insulate the pipes in your basement. Just use the kit that you bought as stated above and follow the instructions.
3. Check for gaps in your foundation.  If there are some found, you simply need to fill them with putty.
4. Insulate your ducts.  Wear your gloves and goggles for this one and use the self-adhesive foam or foil duct insulation kit.
5. Insulate your windows. Use a kit made for this and follow the instruction.  You may need a hairdryer for this to help shrink the plastic to fit.