Cold temperatures will be here before you know it, and taking the time now to prepare your home for winter will pay off in the months to come. You’ll have the advantage of being able to keep your home warm, cozy and safe, as well as keeping your energy bills down.
How to Prepare your Home for Winter
- Inspect the weatherstripping around your doors and windows to check for leaks that will cause heat loss. Replace it if necessary.
- Check for drafts around windows and doors. You can use a lighted candle for the purpose: hold the candle close to the window or door; if the flame flickers, you have a draft. Another option is to wet the back of your hand slightly and hold it up; you’ll find it easy to feel any drafts coming from your doors or windows. Apply caulking inside and out, where required. You should plan to replace the drafty door or window in the near future.
- Inspect your windows for cracks, gaps and broken glass. Repair or replace them, as necessary.
- Shut off exterior faucets and drain water from sprinkler heads and outdoor pipes to protect against bursts.
- Inspect wooden decks for decay, splintering and damage from insects. Treat, if required, to prevent further deterioration.
- Check handrails on exterior stairs to make sure they are securely in place.
- Replace air filter in your home to improve air quality and ensure your furnace is working at maximum efficiency.
- Have a maintenance inspection performed on your furnace to make sure that it is ready for winter.
- Check for missing, warped or damaged shingles and have them replaced as required before a leak occurs.
- Inspect gutters and downspouts to make sure they are securely fastened in place. Reattach if they are loose or sagging. The weight of snow may pull them away from your home.
- Clean out gutters and remove any debris. Make sure your downspouts extend at least five feet away from your house to prevent flooding and water damage from melting snow.
If your preparations for winter reveal that you need new windows, doors or a roof repair, call George Kent Home Improvements right away. We’ll help your home ready before Old Man Winter sets in.
