Does it send shivers down your spine when you think of dealing with the winter season? If you think your home might not fight the chill of winter, get it prepared in advance so you do not have nightmares later. Here are some tips on how you can maintain your house and make it ready to handle the strain of the winter season.
Get it insulated
Consider adding an extra layer of insulation to your home attic. If you own a new house, it may be compliant to the required insulation standards, but add insulation if your house needs regular maintenance. Additionally, you may choose to install new storm windows that have insulated glass. Installing storm windows and doors can be a great protection for your home. If any water pipes are exposed to extremely cold conditions, consider insulating them too.
Do caulking
On all exterior trim, as well as around door or window glass and trim, apply caulk so they remain sealed during the winter season. If there is no weather stripping on any door or window, install it. If weather stripping is in a bad condition, consider replacing it as soon as possible. Check for any types of cracks and leakages around water pipes and electrical outlets. It is critical to fix them all before winter arrives.
Check temperature control systems
You would mostly use your home heating equipment during the winter season. Thus, get them all inspected well in advance. Hire a licensed HVAC professional who could take a good look at such heating equipment. Usually, furnaces would need an annual inspection. Thus, you should get that done timely to avoid any troubles in winter.
Complete all the cleaning work
To avoid gutters being clogged during the winter season, you should check and clean them, if needed. Clogged gutters can cause bad flooding around your house and the water could also seep into your house. You should also drain or close off any water faucets installed outside your house. Apart from gutters, also get your chimneys inspected and cleaned.
Keep winter-fighting items stocked
Check if you have a stock of sand, rock salt or snow shovels for winter. Keep all such items that may help you fight the chilling winter season. You should also keep your fire extinguishers charged. Replace them if it is required. Additionally, replace batteries in smoke detectors. All such equipment should be ready before you welcome winters.
