How to Prepare Your Home for Winter before the First Real Snows Hit
We’re already approaching the end of November, so we know winter is just around the corner. Winter in the Colchester area can get pretty harsh, especially if you don’t prepare your home for the cold weather. Your home is your safe haven and it needs to remain warm and cozy during the winter. Here are a few ways to make sure your home is ready for winter:
Prepare the Fireplace and Chimney
The fireplace and chimney need to be cleaned and inspected before you light the first fire of the season. Look for a CSIA Certified chimney sweep to be sure you’re getting the best quality chimney inspection and cleaning for your money.
Windows and Doors
Weatherproofing strips will ensure that none of your heat escapes and no cold air enters the house. They seal the cracks and keep your windows and doors leak-free. Also consider installing a door draft guard on each door that leads to the outside. These guards are designed to prevent draft between the bottom of the door and the floor. Hang heavy drapes over windows to further insulate them.
Clean the Guttering
The gutters and downspouts collect a lot of debris throughout the year. They can become blocked easily and contribute to the formation of ice dams through the winter months. Clean guttering has much less of a chance to become blocked and frozen during the winter.
Inspect the Roof
Make sure your roof is ready for the stress of the upcoming winter. Inspect the shingles to ensure they’re not damaged. Any signs of damage should be repaired before snow hits.
Trim Trees
Trim back tree limbs that may become heavy with snow and fall onto your roof. Heavy trees can break over and cause serious damage to your roof and your home. Take the opportunity to cut back any trees that put your home in danger.
Pad the Plumbing
Pipe insulation is a great way to ensure that you won’t have to deal with frozen water pipes this year. How many times have you awakened to slow flowing water or a completely frozen plumbing system? We’ve all been there, but pipe insulation and electric pipe tape can make all the difference in the world where your plumbing is concerned.
Prepare Your Emergency Kit
Every homeowner should have an emergency kit for power outages and winter storms. Your kit should include batteries, a flashlight, candles, matches, and a lighter. Also make sure you have warm clothing, blankets, a battery-powered radio, non-perishable food items, and bottled water. Include specific emergency items for every member of the family: baby formula, medicines, and pet foods if necessary.
Inspections and Repairs
Give us a call at 802-862-4754 if your visual inspection shows problems with your guttering, roofing, or other household areas that need repairs. We’ll help you make all of the necessary repairs to your home before winter settles into the Colchester area in the coming months.