Now that temperatures are dropping, it is time to start thinking about preparing your home for the winter. Autumn is the perfect time to embark on fixing all of your home’s minor issues that could potentially become major problems during the winter. It is best to address the problems now before they become big issues later.
Check for Leaks
Your doors and windows can hold gaps and cracks that allow cold air to seep into your home. Replace any doors or windows before the temperatures get too cold. You can seal small cracks and gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. Your ductwork could also house leaks, so hire a professional technician to check for leaks and seal them in your ductwork.
Don’t Neglect Gutters
The fall is the ideal time to clean gutters. Wait until after most of the leaves fall so that you only have to perform the task once. Remove all dirt and debris from your gutters and place a shield over the top of your gutters to prevent future clogs. This is one of the best ways to prevent ice and snow from damaging the eves of your house. Look for cracks in the gutters as you clean and seal them with caulk.
Prepare for Snow
If it snows regularly where you live, you will have to prepare for it far in advance. Stock up on sand and salt to keep pathways clear. Make sure you have a snow shovel and ice pick. If you use a snow blower, make sure it is in good working order before the first snow falls. Make sure you also have an ice scraper in your car at all times and are prepared with snow chains or snow tires.
Prepare your Pipes
Pipes can easily freeze in the winter. Pipes freeze when water is left in unused pipes. It is common for this to happen in outdoor pipes and hoses. Drain your hose, garden sprinklers, and air conditioning pipes. Insulate all exterior pipes with foam insulation. You can also make sure your heater stays on at least to 50 degrees even while away from home to prevent pipe freezing.
Prepare your Furnace
No matter what kind of heating system you use, the fall is the perfect time to make sure it is working properly. Hire a technician to look at the heating system and make any necessary repairs. If your unit is older than 10 years, consider replacing it with an energy-efficient model to save money and energy. You can clean heater filters and vacuum any dust off the unit yourself to save a few dollars in repair money.
Protect your Roof
You do not want to face roof issues during the winter. Leaks during the winter can lead to a huge amount of expensive problems, requiring you to replace insulation, siding, and even some of the structural supports of your home. If snow or water leaks into your home, it can cause warping, mold, and a whole host of other problems. Have a roofing inspector take a look at your home to ensure your roof is ready to face the season. Some roofing companies even perform inspections for free.
All of these steps will help you face winter temperatures with ease and without hassle. When you do these jobs well in advance, all you have to do is sit back and enjoy the winter in comfort. This will allow you to focus on more fun things during the winter, such as Christmas festivities or your New Year’s Eve party.