Last-Minute Tips and Tricks To Get Your Home Ready For Winter

The colder weather is starting to make an appearance, and before we know it, winter will be here.

There are so many different tips and tricks to ensure your home is ready for winter, here are ten to get you started.

  1. Make sure to inspect the complete exterior. Sometimes when you live in an older home, it's more likely to leak through holes or cracks that happen over time. Areas such as the siding, windows/window sills, doors, concrete foundation, or the roof are specific areas where you should be looking.
  2. After the roof has been inspected, it might be time to have snow guards installed. Snow guards reduce the possibility for the snow to fall and cause damage to your home, or bodily harm.
  3. Check the attic to see if another layer of insulation is needed as older homes can be unbearably cold.
  4. Make sure to test your heat sources to ensure they are working properly. If they aren't, you still have time to get a technician to fix any problems.
  5. Inspect the eavestroughs and downpipe; they can become clogged from falling leaves and cause havoc later when they aren't draining properly.
    1. Check our blog on Eavestroughing Maintenance for Your Home.
  6. Water pipes in older homes should be insulated. If they become too cold, they can freeze and burst due to the expansion of water.
  7. Reverse your ceiling fans to spin clockwise to push warm air downwards.
  8. Prepare yourself and purchase de-icer (sand, salt, and windshield washer fluid) to make sure walkways, stairs, and your windshield are clear.
  9. Since winter storms are unpredictable, think about creating a "survival pack" that includes but not limited to: lighters, candles, matches, batteries, flashlights, canned food, plenty of water, and more. You can even purchase a generator and extra blankets to ensure you won't go without heat for a long period of time.
  10. Make sure any outside hoses or water sources are turned off, disconnected, and drained, as well as make sure all snow equipment is working properly (snowblower and heat trace cords).

 

With these tips, you'll be sure to help keep your home warm in the winter and keep protected from the harsh elements.

 

Picture by: CaraCo Homes