WINTERIZE Your Home In Nine Easy Steps

Between cold temps and flu season, we all know winter is hard on us. But, did you know it can be even harder on your home? Extreme temperature fluctuations cause things to expand and contract quickly, creating issues with weatherstripping, poured concrete, and cracked seals. Freezing temperatures can result in bursting water pipes while tree limbs weighted by snow and ice can tumble down on rooftops, cars, and other places we rather them not be. The good news is that if you know how to winterize your home, you can easily eliminate many of these problems before they happen.  

Between cold temps and flu season, we all know winter is hard on us. But, did you know it can be even harder on your home?

Here’s a handy checklist of nine important items you’ll want to take care of to properly winterize your home and keep everyone safe and warm during those blustery days.

W – Weatherstripping should be checked to ensure the cold stays out and the heat stays in. Replace any worn-out weatherstripping and caulk around holes and openings where needed.

 I –   Insulate any exposed pipes outside your home, in your crawl space, the basement, and attic. This goes a long way to prevent freezing pipes – a nightmare you never want to experience.

N – Negate the sprinkler system for the winter. Shut off the water supply to your sprinklers and purge the water from the lines.

T –   Test your smoke detectors. Residential fires are much more common during the winter months, so make sure your alert system has fresh batteries and works properly. While you’re at it, check your carbon monoxide detectors too. Don’t have one? Well, let’s get that fixed right away.  

E –   Ensure foundation vents are closed for the winter if you do not have a sealed crawl space. This helps keep the cold air out and can help prevent frozen pipes.  

R –  Reverse any ceiling fans, so they blow air toward the ceiling.  This way, you can keep the fans on low, which will gently circulate and push the warm air that rises back down to where you are.

 I –   Install an emergency pressure release valve in your plumbing system. It’s a good thing to consider protecting against increased pressure caused by freezing pipes. While you’re at it, make sure you know where and how to shut off your water and where your pipes are located.

Z –   Zap those clogged gutters. If autumn’s falling leaves have nestled all snug in your downspouts, get ‘em out of there. Either do it yourself or call a professional. Clogged gutters mean water won’t divert properly away from your home, which can cause a variety of problems such as water leaks, foundation issues, icicles, and ice dams.

E –   Examine your HVAC system. Have it checked by a professional before freezing temperatures take hold. An ounce of prevention is still worth a pound of cure.

Now you’re all set to have a safe and happy winter. If you have any questions or problems, don’t hesitate to give us a call. We’re always happy to help.