As you move into a season of cold weather and snowy days, it is critical that your space is equipped to stay strong throughout the season. Unfortunately, many homeowners forget to do the maintenance needed to keep their home in superb condition.
Whether you have a vacation home in the heart of the mountains or a luxurious house in the suburbs, it is important that you take time to treat your space appropriately. This includes winterizing your home properly. In this article, we will share eight great tips for prepping your home for the cooler months.
1. Clean Your Gutters
Gutter cleaning is one of the most important things you can do to protect your home during the winter months. A clogged gutter will have water pouring down on it, which can cause damage to roofs and fascia boards. It might seem like a good idea to just let the snowfall take care of this for you, but that is not typically advisable. Snow can be heavy and wet, so undirected snow melting could potentially lead to more harm than good. If you live in an area where it snows frequently or if heavy winds are commonplace, make sure to clear gutters before an upcoming storm.
2. Get Your Heat Checked
Before the first snow of the season, it is critical to have a contractor come test the heating system. As you get ready for winter, contact a service such as 888 Heating and Air just in case there are any problems that need to be addressed. Even if you had someone look at it recently, a checkup for the heater ensures that it will run smoothly and without fail all season long. If the system is malfunctioning prior to the season, you can get the issue solved before it is too late or too cold outside.
3. Cover Your Pipes
If buried outside, make sure to cover exposed pipes with insulation or weatherproof tape so they do not freeze during cold months. If you live in an area where the groundwater freezes easily, it might be required by law that you get your pipes prepped for the winter weather. Check the insulation behind ceilings and exterior walls of your pipes. If you are sure what the regulations are in your area, check with local ordinances to make sure you are preparing the pipes correctly.
4. Add Extra Insulation
If your walls do not have sufficient insulation, winter will be tough on your house. During the winter months, it is important that all windows and doors are well-sealed to hold in heat and prevent drafts from entering. If the weather starts dropping below freezing during regular nights, double check to ensure that you have sealed up any holes or leaks that might result in icy territories throughout the home. It also helps if you install some extra to ensure that warmth stays inside throughout winter days ahead.
5. Prepare Your Lawn for Weather Changes
If winter months are upon you, it is time to prepare your lawn for the season ahead. If the area around your home is not well-maintained, winter damages can occur on both sidewalks and driveways. If you have any decorative stones or rocks that are loose, be sure to secure them down so they do not incur damage when snowfall occurs.
Depending on the layout of your yard, you may want to lay fresh mulch around trees and plants that will remain outside throughout the winter season. Lastly, make sure any plants that you take care of are able to stay outside throughout the inclimate weather conditions. If not, you can move them indoors temporarily.
6. Fix Any Issues in the Fireplace
Before the temperatures drop drastically, check to see if there are any issues with your fireplace. Make sure to adequately clean out the fireplace before the season begins. Once the cold has arrived, you can safely start a fire to keep warm. If there are cracks or damages that need to be mended, make sure to get them resolved immediately so you don’t have any hazardous flames inside of the house. Any small issue can turn into a big problem if addressed incorrectly. If you have a gas fireplace, it is recommended that you have an expert come buy each season to ensure that no unnecessary gas is leaking throughout the day.
7. Add the Gear You Need Through the House
Both indoors and outdoors, there are things that need to be changed between the seasons. December through March are typically the months that are optimal for investing in additional winter blankets. Not only are they perfect for keeping warm while snow storms start rolling through your area, they also make great decorations. If you have lawn equipment, it is time for it to be covered so that it is not damaged by participation.
Other things that may need to be brought out from the pavement include snow shovels and ice scrapers. Lastly, as the season begins to set in, gather all of the winter gear that you will need to be prepared for the coming days. This should include jackets and boots as well as necessary hats and gloves. If any winter accessories have been ruined over previous years, be sure to get those items replaced as soon as possible so you can safely battle harsh weather conditions.
8. Test the Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Before winter starts, it is important to test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. If they are not properly working, you will be at risk if a fire breaks out. Make sure that your stove top is turned off before going to bed for the evening. Never leave space heaters on overnight without supervision from someone who can keep an eye on it throughout the night.
Endnote
To winterize your home, we recommend considering getting your windows and doors checked, lawn equipment covered, and fireplace issues fixed. By prepping your home for winter, you can continue to enjoy it all year long.