
As winter draws near, it’s a good time to evaluate if your
home is ready for frigid temperatures and potential threats that come
from ice and snow. Winterization is most effective during the fall.
Here’s how to winter-proof your home to save on energy and prevent any
damage to your home before it’s too late.
Seal Doors and Windows
Check
for airflow around all of your doors and windows. The goal is to keep
cool air out and your heat in. Consider adding weather stripping or door
sweeps to stop air leaks around doorways. Adding caulk around windows
and baseboards can also help stop airflow.
Inspect Your Fireplace
Before
you plan to cozy up by the fire this season, be sure to inspect your
fireplace, wood-burning or electric, before first use. Call a chimney
sweep to clean your wood-burning fireplace. You never know what or how
many critters have been nesting in your chimney throughout the year.
Electric fireplaces usually require cleaning and maintenance as well, so
be sure to not skip this step even if you have an electric fireplace.
Clean Your Gutters
You
want to make sure you clear out all of fall’s leaves and debris before
the first snow hits. Clogged gutters can lead to poor draining when you
need it the most. If you hate the chore of cleaning gutters every
season, consider installing gutter guards. Gutter guards help keep large
debris out of your gutters, allowing for easier maintenance.
Protect Your Outdoor Entertainment Items
Before
cold weather hits, be sure to store away your grill and any outdoor
furniture that can be easily damaged by snow and ice. Remember to clean
your grill and disconnect your propane tank (if it’s a gas grill) before
putting it away for the season.
Protect Your Pipes
Cold
temperatures can cause your pipes to freeze and/or burst leading to
plumbing problems or worse. Consider adding insulation covers to your
pipes before harsh weather comes.
Winter-proofing your
home is a manageable DIY project you can take on this season. However,
if you find that some tasks need a little more TLC, don’t hesitate to
contact a professional to get your home in the best shape possible. Have
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