As winter approaches, it’s important to look for ways to reduce the effects frigid temperatures and snow buildup will have on your home. If you take the time to prepare and winterize your home, you’ll find it easier to deal with the adverse conditions of winter. In addition to pulling out the warmer clothes, take steps to help your home provide better protection.
Schedule a Roof Inspection
As a general rule, you should have your roof inspected at least once per year. It’s better to schedule this service for late fall to ensure your roof can withstand the heavy winds or snowfall common in winter. This simple step can go a long way in preparing for the hazards of winter. Additionally, fall is the off-season for roofers, so their services may cost less. Be sure your contractor clears your gutters and inspects them for damage as well. The inspection should be done early enough to give you time to schedule any repairs that might be necessary before the first snowfall.
Trim and Prune Your Trees
If you have your trees pruned in the fall, they will thrive more fully in the spring. This is also the time to have the branches trimmed to keep them from causing roof damage during the winter. Look for branches that hang over the roof of your home, garage, or shed. As snow piles up on these branches in the winter, the extra weight might cause them to snap and fall onto your roof. Even a strong winter gust can increase the pressure on weak branches, causing them to break. You’ll avoid damages by having these branches trimmed before winter.
Take Care of Your Pipes and Hoses
If you don’t take steps to winterize your plumbing, your home’s pipes might freeze as the temperature drops. To begin, disconnect any garden hoses that you have hooked up to outdoor faucets. The hoses should be drained to remove excess water before you roll them up and store them in your basement or garage. The plumbing pipes in your basement also need attention. Foam insulation can be easily wrapped around those pipes for an extra layer of protection. You can also insulate the plumbing pipes under the sinks in your home. Keep those cabinet doors ajar during the winter to allow your home’s heat to warm the pipes.
Schedule HVAC Maintenance
Have your HVAC system serviced in the fall and spring to ensure it’s running efficiently. During both service calls, the HVAC technician will clean the air filter, check the refrigerant level, lubricate the blower motor, and perform service on other components that are used year-round. In the fall, your technician will also perform a furnace tune up to ensure your heating system is functioning well. The technician will clean the gas ports, check the heat exchanger for cracks, and perform other service updates to help you use your heating system efficiently and safely.
Check Your Home’s Insulation
Sometime in the fall, you should visit your attic or crawlspace to check the condition of your home’s insulation. In general, insulation should last several decades, but it can become damaged if there’s a leak in the roof. To inspect your insulation, look at the underside to see if it’s damp, black, or moldy. If so, you’ll need to replace it. You should look for air leaks around the door and window frames throughout your home. Run your hand along the frames to feel for changes in temperature. If you feel a leak, fill it with caulk or spackle.
Stock Up on Supplies
A severe winter storm or extremely frigid temperatures can keep you confined to your home. To prepare for that type of situation, stock up on nonperishable food, such as dry goods or canned foods. You should also stock up on bottled water in case a storm interrupts plumbing services. Prepare for power outages by keeping flashlights handy, and keep extra batteries on hand. You should also stock up on nonprescription medication, first aid supplies, and personal hygiene products. A fully stocked pantry will help you manage several days without power.
Just as you winterize your vehicle, it’s necessary to prepare your home for the colder temperatures. Taking these steps now will help you avoid many of the common repairs homeowners need in the winter months. You can also avoid losing access to vital services, such as heat and running water, by taking these steps early. A little preparation will help your home and family stay safer throughout the winter.
