The changing seasons, especially winter, can be harsh on your home. From plumbing problems to snow-filled rooftops to icy driveways, they can cause irreversible damage to your property and place your family at risk. Here are seven valuable tips to help you efficiently prepare your house for the next winter season.
Care for your trees
Tree branches can become hazards to your home, as they can put unnecessary weight on your roof, especially if left unchecked. Do a walkthrough of your exteriors and inspect the trees surrounding your property, specifically those with tree branches extending over your roof, covered outdoor areas, power and cable lines, and garage. Trim your tree branches, remove dead limbs and fallen leaves, and prune them during the last winter months or before spring starts.
Clean the gutters
Another vital must-do task before winter is cleaning out your gutters. Debris, such as twigs and leaves, can clog your gutters, disturbing the water drainage and causing icy blockages. While you can hire professional cleaners, you can also clean your gutters independently. Ensure you have the right cleaning tools and a secure ladder.
Inspect the roof
Inspecting your roof is integral to ensuring your home is winter-ready. Aside from cutting overgrown tree branches, you must also remove other debris and hazardous elements that have accumulated, no matter how minor.
Scan your roof for signs of damage so that you can address them immediately before the cold months. Remember that your roof is the protective barrier, keeping your family safe and comfortable, so ensuring it’s in prime condition is essential.
Safeguard your plumbing
Another vital task you must do before winter begins is winterizing your plumbing. Insulating your pipes is imperative, as exposed or uninsulated ones have a higher chance of being frozen. You can insulate them using insulation tape or sleeves, which you can easily buy at hardware stores. Check for air leaks or gaps near plumbing fixtures and seal them using caulk or weatherstripping.
Invest in snow-melting tools
Without proper preparation, winter means endless shoveling, slippery surfaces, and property damage. Investing in an efficient driveway heating system like this one here means you no longer need to waste your precious time and energy clearing snow every morning. You can sleep soundly without worrying about your family’s safety and continue with your daily living activities sans stress.
Clean the fireplace
While fireplaces can warm your home during the cold months, the chimney can be a haven of dirt and other harmful elements. Have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned to prevent soot and creosote buildup. Not caring for your chimney can lead to house fires, health problems due to trapped toxic gasses, and other internal property damage.
Turn off external water sources
For your outdoor water sources, such as sprinklers and garden hoses, remember to shut them off and drain the residual water. Disregarding these tasks before winter will lead to frozen and cracked pipes.
Endnote
Winter-proofing your home can be easy and inexpensive. Take note of these tips, so you can stay warm and safe with your loved ones all year long.
