As winter approaches, it’s essential to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. A little proactive maintenance can help keep your home cozy, prevent costly repairs, and ensure everything runs smoothly during the winter season. Here’s a practical checklist to get your home winter-ready, from insulation checks to heating system maintenance.
1. Inspect and Maintain Your Heating System
Your heating system works harder than ever in the winter, so ensuring it’s in top shape is crucial.
- Schedule a Furnace Check-Up: Have a professional inspect your furnace, clean or replace filters, and ensure it’s running efficiently. Regular maintenance reduces energy use and prolongs the life of your system.
- Check for Leaks and Drafts: Walk around windows, doors, and attic hatches to detect any drafts. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps and prevent heat loss.
2. Test and Seal Windows and Doors
Poor insulation around windows and doors is a primary cause of heat loss, so make sure these areas are secure.
- Install Weatherstripping: Apply weatherstripping to windows and doors to create a tight seal. Not only will this prevent drafts, but it can also significantly reduce your heating costs.
- Use Heavy Curtains: Thermal or insulated curtains help retain heat and block out the cold air that can seep through windows.
3. Clean and Inspect Your Gutters
Leaves and debris can clog gutters, causing water to back up and freeze in winter, which can damage your gutters and even your roof.
- Clear Out Leaves and Debris: Use a scoop or gutter brush to remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters.
- Install Gutter Guards: If your gutters are prone to clogs, consider adding gutter guards to keep debris out and ensure water can flow freely.
- Check Downspouts: Make sure downspouts are clear and direct water at least a few feet away from your foundation to prevent water from freezing around your home’s base.
4. Protect Your Plumbing
Frozen pipes are one of the most common—and costly—winter problems. Take these precautions to prevent freezing:
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Wrap exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like garages or basements, with foam insulation sleeves.
- Seal Cracks and Gaps: Look for any cracks or gaps around windows, doors, and where pipes enter your home, and seal them to prevent cold air from reaching the pipes.
- Leave Faucets Dripping: During extreme cold, let your faucets drip slightly to keep water moving through the pipes, reducing the chance of freezing.
5. Prepare Outdoor Spaces and Tools
Winter preparation isn’t just about the inside of your home. Outdoor areas and tools also need some attention.
- Shut Off and Drain Exterior Faucets: Disconnect hoses and shut off the water supply to exterior faucets. Drain any remaining water to prevent pipes from bursting.
- Store Garden Equipment: Clean and store outdoor equipment like lawn mowers, grills, and garden tools. If you have gas-powered equipment, add a fuel stabilizer before storing it for winter.
- Check Snow Removal Equipment: Make sure your snow blower is in working order, and stock up on ice melt, shovels, and other snow removal tools.
6. Inspect Your Roof and Attic
A sturdy roof and a well-insulated attic are vital for keeping warm air in and preventing leaks during snowy weather.
- Check for Missing or Damaged Shingles: Look for any loose or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks. Consider hiring a professional if you spot any issues that need repair.
- Ensure Proper Attic Insulation: A well-insulated attic prevents heat from escaping, reducing the chance of ice dams on your roof. Check that insulation is evenly distributed and meets recommended levels.
- Ventilate Your Attic: Proper attic ventilation reduces humidity and helps prevent ice buildup on the roof. Make sure vents are clear and functioning properly.
7. Stock Up on Emergency Supplies
Winter storms can lead to power outages, so it’s wise to have essential supplies on hand.
- Create an Emergency Kit: Stock your kit with flashlights, batteries, blankets, non-perishable food, bottled water, and a first-aid kit.
- Consider a Generator: If power outages are common in your area, having a backup generator can help keep your home warm and your devices charged.
- Check Carbon Monoxide and Smoke Detectors: Ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working and have fresh batteries. Winter is a prime time for heating-related carbon monoxide incidents, so this step is crucial.
8. Keep Walkways and Driveways Safe
Ice on walkways and driveways poses a slipping hazard. Ensure your exterior spaces are safe for both you and visitors.
- Apply Ice Melt or Sand: Use ice melt or sand to help prevent ice buildup on driveways, steps, and walkways.
- Keep a Shovel Handy: Be prepared to clear walkways after snowstorms, preventing ice from building up and making paths safer.
Ready for Winter? Protect Your Home and Your Comfort
Winterizing your home may take some time, but it’s well worth the effort for a warm, safe, and energy-efficient season. With a few strategic steps, you can protect your home from the elements and save on heating costs. At Homes By Hendriks, we’re here to help with expert advice and resources to keep your home in peak condition, whatever the season.
Reach out to us if you have any questions or need guidance in preparing your home for winter. We’re here to help!
