Winter is just around the corner, and we all know it can sometimes be pretty tough. That’s why it’s super important to get yourself and your home ready for the chilly days ahead. Here’s a straightforward checklist to help you prep your home for the winter season.
First thing’s first, take a look at your roof and gutters. During fall, leaves pile up everywhere, and they can clog your gutters. If this debris freezes, it can get under your shingles and cause roof damage. Plus, frozen debris can fall and potentially harm someone or damage the side of your house. So, start by thoroughly cleaning out your gutters.
As temperatures drop, we all want to keep our homes warm and cozy. But without proper insulation, heating your home can be a challenge because it cools down faster. Consider installing spray foam insulation to keep the warmth inside. You can consult with a local professional to get this done right. Don’t forget to insulate your roof and basement as well.
Another critical area to insulate is your pipes. Cold winters can freeze your pipes, leading to serious damage. Frozen pipes can burst and cause a lot of water damage. So, it’s smart to insulate your pipes in advance.
If you have outdoor sprinklers, make sure to prepare them for winter too. Remove any leftover water before the first freeze. If you don’t, the water can freeze, expand, and damage your sprinkler system and pipes. You might want to hire an irrigation contractor to ensure everything is properly blown out and dry.
For those living in extremely cold climates, frozen door locks can be a real pain. To prevent this, spray a bit of powdered graphite lubricant into all door locks, right where the key goes. Then insert the key and turn it in the lock. This helps lubricate the pins inside and keeps the lock from freezing. Doing this once a year should be sufficient.
Drafts can be one of the biggest causes of heat loss in the winter. To check for drafts, light a candle on each windowsill and near baseboards. If the flame stays still, you’re good, but if it flickers, you’ve got a draft. Clean these areas and use caulking to seal any gaps. This will make your home more energy-efficient and draft-free.
Lastly, make sure your fireplace is clean and ready to use. This is especially important if you have a wood-burning fireplace, as residue can be highly flammable. Hire professionals to clean and service the fireplace and chimney to ensure safety and efficiency.
By following this simple checklist, you can make sure you and your home are ready to stay cozy throughout the winter. Once you’re done, you can relax and enjoy the magical season.