As a top-rated TTR Sotheby’s agent, Ehrens & Norman Group are not just your buying and selling experts but also your partner in the journey of home ownership. And part of that journey should be your annual preparation for the harsh weather of the coming winter months.
Let’s look at several important steps every homeowner should take to winterize their property, not only to ensure your family’s comfort but also to protect and maintain what may be your biggest single investment.
If you have questions, please don’t hesitate to reach out, and if you need professional help with any of these steps, we maintain a carefully vetted list of the most reliable service companies in our area.
- Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors:
- Thoroughly inspect all windows and doors, looking for visible cracks, gaps, or places where you can feel a draft.
- Use weatherstripping to seal movable openings like doors and windows.
- Use caulk to fill stationary gaps around window frames and door jambs.
- Draft stoppers are a quick and easy way to block heat loss at the bottom of exterior doors.
- Check Your Heating System:
It’s always a good idea to have your heating system inspected before winter sets in. Have a professional come out to:
- Ensure that your system is operating efficiently so you won’t spend more than necessary on your heating bills.
- Address any routine maintenance that can help prevent problems in the future.
- Spot any hidden issues that could result in a breakdown just when the weather is at its worst.
At a minimum, you’ll want to change out your air filters to maintain good indoor air quality and energy efficiency. If you need a reminder, one good idea is to subscribe to Amazon to ship them to your house at specific intervals, and when they arrive, you’ll know it’s time for a change.
- Winterize Outdoor Spigots and Hoses:
According to local plumbing expert Roy Barnes of Service Force Plumbing, the majority of calls they get for frozen and burst pipes in the winter are due to homeowners leaving hoses connected to their spigots.
By disconnecting your hoses before the temperature drops, you’ll help ensure that no water is trapped in your spigot and at risk of freezing.
Check out this blog post for more tips on preventing frozen and burst pipes.
- Service Your Fireplace and Chimney:
If you have a fireplace or wood stove, have the system inspected from top to bottom before using it this winter. A professional chimney company can help you:
- Make sure the damper and any seals are functioning properly.
- Check for any risks of carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Ensure that creosote has not built up inside the chimney, putting your home at risk of a devastating chimney fire.
- Make sure your chimney liner is in good condition if you have one.
- Locate and remove any animal nests or other debris that may have accumulated since the last time a fire was lit.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts:
Gutters clogged with leaves or debris can contribute to ice dams on your roof and the resulting interior leaks and structural damage. Clear leaves and debris from your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage when snow and ice begin to melt this winter.
- Prepare Your Lawn and Outdoor Spaces:
You’ll want to take some steps to winterize your outdoor areas as well, including:
- Looking for any trees and branches that could fall and damage your home during winter storms and trim them back or have a professional tree service come to remove them.
- Storing or covering outdoor furniture and equipment to prevent damage from snow and ice.
- Checking any outdoor wood surfaces to see if they need a fresh coat (or first coat!) of protective sealant.
- Clearing leaves and debris from wood and concrete surfaces. Wet debris left on outdoor surfaces through the winter can cause significant damage to them.
- Prep Your Winter Emergency Kit:
Be prepared for power outages and winter storms. Create a winter emergency kit with essential supplies like a power bank, flashlights, blankets, non-perishable food, and a battery-powered radio. Check out this article for more details on assembling winter emergency kits.
Conclusion:
Properly preparing your home for colder weather not only provides a cozy and inviting environment for you and your family during the winter months but also helps safeguard your investment.
And again, if you have any questions or need further guidance, don't hesitate to reach out to us and we can connect you to a local expert for assistance.
