How To Prepare Your Home For Winter

It’s important to winterize your home every year to help protect your home and property.

Temperature Control

Get your heating system checked by a professional before the season begins to avoid needing any major repairs when the temperatures fall. Keep your home at a comfortable temperature by setting your thermostat to automatically turn on when the temperature drops below 65 degrees Fahrenheit.  Carefully check around every window and doorframe for any cracks or openings. Seal any leaks with caulk or install weather stripping to prevent cold air from seeping in. Keep a few faucets running when temperatures drop below freezing to protect your pipes from freezing and bursting.

Dealing With Ice

Along with the freezing rain and snow comes the hazard of slippery black ice. Always wear snow boots when you go outside to avoid slipping on any icy spots. Keep your driveway and sidewalks clear during a winter storm. Frequently shovel snow and use cement-safe deicing salt to prevent ice from forming on your pathways. Keep a durable mat by your front door and entryways for added traction. Ice, wind, and snow can also damage plants and weaken trees. Prevent damage from fallen branches by removing dead plants and keeping others well-trimmed.

Prevent Water Damage

For additional protection from the rain and snow, keep your gutters clean and free from any blockages. If your land isn’t graded properly, you might need help moving water away from your home. Downspouts are extensions that can be added to most gutter systems to help prevent water from pooling up and ruining the foundation. If water does not properly drain away from your home, you may end up with water in your basement. Consider installing a sump pump if your home is prone to frequent flooding.

With these things in mind, you can better prepare your home for the freezing temperatures that come along with the winter season.

Tips for Improving Your Garage

Your garage is a great space to refurbish into the exact room you need. Improve your garage with these simple tips. 

Spruce Up Appearances

Repaint the walls and concrete floor a vibrant color to make it look brand new. Replace your old garage door Denton with a sturdy new wooden one. An old or damaged garage door can really taint the overall look of your home. Store a broom nearby to regularly sweep any dirt or dust that builds up to help keep the area clean. Install shelving and use pallets to store equipment and keep things off the ground. This will not only help you save space but also prevent water damage in the case of flooding. 

Brainstorm Possibilities

Once your garage is organized, clean, and ready for use you can decide what you want to keep inside. You might use it as a traditional workspace with cars and tools, or an area where you keep all kinds of extra storage. If you have children, it’s a great idea to convert a garage into a playroom. This helps give your kids space to play and contains their toys in one area. With proper insulation, you can even fully finish the space and transform it into a spare guest room.

Create Your Home Gym

Alternatively, you can transform your new space into a home gym. Include a basic set of dumbbells, kettlebells, resistance bands, and a yoga mat. Try to include a mixture of workout machines used for resistance training, strength training, and cardio. Always put things away when you’re done using them, so the space is ready to use next time. Keep in mind the temperatures outside in case you need a fan or portable air conditioner. Set up a good stereo system so you can listen to music as you work out.

With some planning and preparation, you can transform your garage into the perfect workbench, playroom, home gym, or anything else you desire. 

5 Gifts for the Cowboy in Your Life

If you live somewhere with dairy or beef farms, chances are you know a cowboy. Whether they compete at your local rodeo or show livestock at the county fair, they embrace the label as part of their heritage or culture. Curious about what to get them for a birthday or holiday? Here are some ideas.

Belts and Buckles

In some circles, belt buckles are a way to convey identity. A novelty buckle is sure to get a smile. Some competitions also use buckles in place of trophies, allowing winners to proudly display their victories. Finding a belt that compliments their prized buckles, such as a cattle roundup belt for a trophy buckle from a rodeo, is a subtle gift that will make big waves.

Saddle Bags

If they spend a lot of time on horseback for work or recreation, saddlebags are a good idea. They can keep water bottles handy and be a safe place to store phones and other equipment.

Hat Holder

Stetson hats don't just look fancy, they keep the sun out of your eyes, ensuring you're not blinded by the glare. However, they are cumbersome, and storage can be a hassle. Having a designated holder in the truck or bedroom can prevent the hat from being irreparably squished by accident.

New Work Boots

Classic cowboy boots might just raise an eyebrow and get thrown in their closet. It's better to err on the side of practical. Even if work boots aren't fancy, the ones that keep your feet dry and safe tend to cost a pretty penny, and new ones might be a much-appreciated gift.

Boot Scraper

If you live with your cowboy, this might be as much for you as it is for him. If he doesn't have the time or energy to take off his boots before he comes into the house from the barn, boot scrapers can still keep mud and muck outside where it belongs.

Practical or cheeky, the thought put into the gift is what will make it a success.