Winterize Your Home: It’s Easier Than You Think
Winterize Your Home: It’s Easier Than You Think
With temperatures dropping and winter quickly approaching, it’s time to start thinking about how to winterize your home. Fortunately, winterproofing your home is easy when you know what steps you need to take. The following home winterization checklist will help you get started, allowing you to reduce your energy bills and improve your comfort levels.
A Furnace Inspection
One of the first winterizing tips you should follow is to schedule a furnace inspection. After being dormant since last winter, it’s vital to check on your furnace before you start it up for the season. While you can easily change the air filter yourself, it’s best to hire professionals for a complete furnace inspection to ensure it works efficiently when the heating season begins.
Check Your Home Exterior
Another crucial element of winterizing your home is checking your home’s exterior. If you identify damage before winter hits, you can get it fixed to prevent more significant damage during harsh winter weather. You should pay close attention to the following:
- Windows and Doors: Check your windows and doors for gaps in the caulk. It’s important to seal the edges of the windows and doors to keep the cold weather out and reduce your energy costs.
- Downspouts and Gutters: Inspect your downspouts and gutters to ensure they are securely attached. You should also clean them to allow water to flow through freely, helping prevent ice dams.
- Foundation: The foundation of your home is also susceptible to damage from winter weather conditions. Look for cracks that need attention and close up any gaps where critters can enter your home.
Prepare the Fireplace
If you have a fireplace in your home, you will need to winterize it as well to prepare it for use during the cold months. It can be beneficial to hire a chimney sweeper to clean your chimney before using your fireplace for the winter. This service will help reduce the risk of fires and protect your family. If you store your firewood outside, make sure it is stored off the ground and covered to keep it dry and prevent pest infestations.
Winterize Your Plumbing
Cold temperatures can freeze the water in your pipes if you aren’t careful. If you have pipes on the exterior of your home, check the insulation around them to determine if it needs to be replaced. Proper insulation will keep your pipes safe from freezing and reduce the risk of significant damage.
Check Your Emergency Kit
An emergency kit should be at the top of your home winterization checklist. This kit should include non-perishable food, water, a portable stove, and blankets. Candles and matches are also vital if the power goes out. If you have a backup generator, ensure it is tuned up and ready to use.
When it’s time to complete interior or exterior repairs to stay ahead of bigger projects this winter , you can count on Fiderio & Sons to step in and help you. Contact us to schedule a consultation with our team.