Preparing your house for winter might not be on your priority list. After all, with the pandemic putting our plans on hold, it may not seem like a perfect moment to be productive. But let’s face it, spending some time to prepare for what’s to come is always better than stressing about it later. If you want your home to be winter-ready, follow this guide for the best cold-weather maintenance tips.
Snow, cold weather, and ice -these all seem like a perfect recipe that could pose real damage to your home. That is unless you take enough precautions to get ready before the winter chill arrives. This checklist can guide you toward a comfortable abode during the season.
1. Insulate Your Windows
Poorly insulated windows can set your energy costs to reach the high bars. More so, cold air from the outside can enter and detract from the cozy vibes inside your home. Adding insulation to your windows can significantly reduce your energy bill by up to twenty percent. Here are simple ways to insulate your windows:
V-seal weather stripping
You can include weather stripping on the edges of your windows. With this plastic weatherstripping in place, you can shut and open your windows more evenly.
Rope Caulk
The caulk is a soft, sticky material that you can mold to fill any window gaps. It works as a temporary cover, allowing you to take it out after the cold season.
Shrink Film
A shrink film is a clear plastic sheeting that shrinks with heat. It helps seal off drafts and works as an insulating buffer for air.
Nail Polish
Clear nail polish is a great alternative to fill some cracks invisibly. After it hardens, it will stabilize the glass.
Draft Snake
Does cold air enter from the bottom of your window? You can buy a draft snake kit from your nearest hardware. It is a foam tube with a fabric cover on a window sill that prevents outside air from entering.
2. Trim Off Tree Branches
A winter season is not complete without a winter storm. If you happen to have tree branches dangling over your roof, it’s time to trim them off. Furthermore, overhanging limbs can lead to additional water leaking into the crevices of your home’s siding. Keeping all tree branches and stems at least 3 feet away from your property is advisable.
3. Inspect Your Fireplace
The cold and winter days are a perfect call for the fire-burning season. A visual check of your fireplace, both inside and outside, is essential. If you spot any signs of damage, it’s time to call for a professional furnace service provider. Keeping your fireplace in good working order will prevent unnecessary accidents during the chilly months.
It would be best to change some furnace filters, too. Anyhow, this is a routine that you should be doing every two months. But in case you haven’t, now is the right time to do so.
4. Check Your Roof
You don’t want to discover you have a leaky roof when the first snowfall arrives. A roof check can assist you in identifying any possible problems. Are you afraid of heights? Don’t worry; you can conduct a comprehensive assessment even from the ground with binoculars.
If you have experience working on a roof, certain roofing repairs are simple, such as replacing shingles or caulking flashing. If you’re not confident, you can always hire a professional roof inspector for a more in-depth treatment.
5. Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Clogging downspouts or rain gutters can lead to ice dams that damage your home’s foundation. This concern can cost you a lot of money to fix. So, when the fall arrives, cleaning your gutters and eliminating twigs, leaves, and other dirt is wise.
It would help to be sure that gutters aren’t trapping any water. As much as possible, tighten downspout brackets and gutter hangers. If necessary, replace any materials that have been worn out or with damages.
Ready For the Winter Days?
The final days of summer’s heat are slowly fading. What do you do as you feel the cold weather reaching through your bones? You grab a sweatshirt to be more comfortable. Know that your home is experiencing the same thing, too. And like you, protecting it from the weather is an important thing to do. So before the snowy days arrive, it’s time to take a few basic precautions and preparations. This way, you’ll make winter more bearable and avoid unpleasant surprises in the days ahead.
