It’s that time of year again! As you pull out your sweaters and mittens to brace yourself against the chill in the air, do the same thing for your home!
Question: How do I get my house ready for winter?
Answer: Here are Singletary Construction‘s top 10 recommendations to make sure that everyone – and everything – weathers the winter season safely and comfortably.
1. Inspect and Clean Gutters: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are clear of leaves and debris. This will prevent water from backing up and causing damage to the roof and walls.
2. Seal Drafts: Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps, helping to keep warm air in and cold air out. Make sure the windows are tightly closed. Don’t forget to check the attic door too!
3. Service Heating System: Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance for your heating system. This includes cleaning filters, checking for leaks, and ensuring that the system is running efficiently.
4. Insulate Pipes: Insulate water pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and attics. This helps prevent freezing and potential pipe bursts. But also ensure that your pipes at the water heater are firmly wrapped to maximize efficiency.
5. Check Insulation: Make sure your home is well-insulated. Inspect insulation in the attic, walls, and floors. Adding or replacing insulation can help keep your home warmer and reduce heating costs.
6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Ensure that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working condition. Change the batteries and test the alarms to guarantee they provide proper protection.
7. Prepare Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect garden hoses and drain outdoor faucets to prevent freezing. Drain any water from the garden hoses and then store them in a shed or garage.
8. Trim Trees and Branches: Trim any overhanging branches or dead limbs near the house. Heavy snow or ice can cause them to break and potentially damage your home.
9. Pack Up Your Outdoor Spaces: Clean and store outdoor furniture & grills to protect them from winter weather. Also empty flower pots and planters and pack them away until spring. This helps extend the life of these summertime essentials and prevents them from causing damage during storms.
10. Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, blankets, non-perishable food, and first aid supplies. In case of severe weather or power outages, having a kit on hand can be crucial.
Bonus tip: You won’t be using your air conditioning system for the next few months so why not offer this pricey home essential a little extra protection? Place a piece of plywood over the top of the compressor with a few bricks to weigh it down. Just don’t forget to remove it when the weather starts to warm up!
Remember to tailor these recommendations based on the specific needs of your home. Regular maintenance and preparation can go a long way in ensuring your home is comfortable and safe during the winter months.