As summer ends, and we approach autumn, it is important to prep your home for the winter and the cold weather conditions that follow. This blog will educate you on the important steps every homeowner should take when entering into the colder season.
1. Test Heating System:
It is extremely important during the winter to have a working heating system that you know you can rely on. Make a note to change your filters and test your heating to assure that your thermostats and furnace are working properly. It is much easier for plumbers or HVAC experts to work on your system in the spring or fall rather than the winter.
2. Inspect Roof:
While a professional roof inspection is the most effective way to ensure you will not have problems with your roof, below are some signs homeowners should look out for:
• Loose shingles that could be easily knocked off your roof, as well as missing shingles and empty spots on the roof.
• Damaged flanges/seals around electrical conduits, chimneys, skylights and exhaust fans.
• Leaves, or other debris that have built up on your roof that traps moisture, making it easy for ice, moss, or plants to damage the roof.
• Old antennas or satellite dishes can loosen or deteriorate and become dangerous over time.
3. Clear Gutters & Downspouts:
Cleaning out gutters and downspouts will ensure that they are not clogged before winter. This can prevent ice storms from allowing water and debris to collect on your roof, as well as prevent ice dams from forming.
4. Seal Exterior of Home:
Make sure that the exposed wood and trim on the outside of your home is properly caulked, painted, and sealed. Noticing these problems as soon as possible can help ensure that the wood will not begin to rot.
5. Inspect Chimneys & Fireplaces:
Your chimney can be a source of cold air leaks, which is why it is crucial to examine it before winter begins. The most effective way to examine your chimney would be to hire a professional to ensure your fireplace and chimney are working well. However, below is a list of maintenance items homeowners should look out for:
• Clear any obstructions in the chimney.
• Look for loose bricks or eroded mortar on the outside of the chimney.
• Clean bricks that have soot or other build up.
• Schedule any needed repairs to ensure that smoke is escaping safely and efficiently from the fireplace.
6. Prepare Sprinkler Systems, Hoses, & Gardening Equipment:
It is important to drain your outdoor spigots, hoses, water lines, and sprinkler systems before the temperatures drop below freezing. The outdoor water faucets should be turned off for the winter, and any residual water or debris must be blown out of the water lines. Also make sure that any garden tools that may have water in them are drained out. Outdoor items such as lawn mowers, leaf blowers, clippers, etc. should be stored somewhere inside to extend their life and protect them from the cold. These steps will help prevent damage from water expanding when frozen.
7. Prepare Snow Equipment & Emergency Supplies:
Make a checklist of the snow equipment you may need, such as gloves, boots, shovels, defroster, salt, snow blowers, etc. Candles and emergency back-up power should be stored in an accessible place in case the power goes out. Obtaining some type of alternative heat source in case of an emergency is always a good idea as well.
8. Test Carbon Monoxide & Smoke Detectors:
It is extremely important to check that your smoke detectors are working properly because winter heating is known to be one of the biggest causes of fires. The winter season also poses a greater risk to carbon monoxide buildup in your home due to windows being sealed tightly. Make sure you have detectors installed where necessary and regularly change the batteries when needed.
9. Trim Trees & Clean Yard:
If you have damaged trees or limbs around your home, it is best to trim them to ensure there are no risky branches or limbs that could fall and create damaging or dangerous situations. It is much easier and less dangerous to do this before the snow falls, as you can safely climb a ladder and handle equipment without your hands freezing! Homeowners could also hire a professional tree care company to handle this if needed.
The fall is a good time to ensure your lawn is prepared for the cold seasons by taking actions such as:
• Rake dead plants and leaves from the yard.
• Ensure your lawn is aerated.
• Take advantage of the spring and fall to grow and fertilize your grass if needed.
10. Store Outdoor Furniture & Maintain Paved Walkways/Driveways:
Winterize your pavement to prevent damage and avoid expensive repairs. Use a patch kit to fix any small cracks you notice when inspecting your pavement, and repair mortar between pavers.
Move any furniture that you are worried about being damaged during the winter indoors to maximize its lifespan. Despite outdoor furniture being more durable to weather conditions than indoor furniture, it does not necessarily mean it will hold up against ice and snow. It is best to store outdoor furniture somewhere safe and dry, like a garage or shed.
11. Insulate Windows, Doors, Attic & Basement:
Look throughout your home to check for any trouble spots where there are drafts and air leaks. Also ensure that all windows and doors have functioning weatherstripping, which will help improve your home's heating system. Ensuring your attic is well-insulated can help to limit hot air escaping from your home, which saves you money and keeps your home warmer.
Inspecting your basement's foundation is also important to ensure that it is properly insulated, preventing any cracks or other issues from becoming worse with freezing temperatures. Check for moisture, cracks, and access points to the basement that may not be efficiently insulated.
Following these steps is a great way to save money, maintain your home and remain warm in the winter season!
