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Winter is fast approaching!
While we’ve been preparing ourselves for the upcoming cold season, it’s time to turn our attention to our homes to make sure they’re also ready to take on the harsh weather.
Now, this time of the year may seem like a great deal of work, but with a few simple steps for the interior and exterior, you’ll be able to protect your home and enjoy a cozy yet cold season, without having to worry. So grab your coat and turn up your furnace, it’s time to winterize your home.
Clean Out The Gutters
Starting first with the exterior of your home, it’s important to clean out and remove any dirt and debris from your gutters. Debris prevents any water (from melted snow and ice) from draining properly, which could lead to leaks in your home or potentially even break the gutters. Save yourself the headache of any issues and be sure to clean these up before the harsh weather hits!
Quick Landscaping of the Yard
Clip hedges, trim bushes, and be sure to remove any twigs and branches that are close to your home or electric wires! During a storm, these can break, snap or fall, causing power outages or even damage to your home or property. Best to do some quick landscaping before the snow comes.
Inspect the Roof
To prevent any leaks from occurring during the winter, be sure to check your roof to see if any shingles are missing. If there is, now would be the time to call a roofer to fix any issues or foreseeable problems. You may also want to ask them to add extra caulking to your chimney and air vents to keep everything insulated.
Out With the Summer, In with the Winter...
Tools that is! Be sure to store away all your summer items like your garden hose to prevent them from getting cracked or ruined over the next few months. Then, be sure to go through and check on all your winter equipment. You’ll want to make sure that everything is in working order and that you have all your essentials like ice melt and shovels. You don’t want to be heading out for these items when it’s too late!
Inspect Your Furnace, Doors, and Windows
Now it’s time to head indoors and start your preparation! First, it’s important to check that your furnace, doors, and windows are all working properly. A routine furnace inspection may be beneficial, as this helps to ensure your furnace is running effectively and efficiently.
Next, it’s time to inspect the windows and the doors. Check to see if any weather-stripping has been torn away, and replace if necessary. You’ll also want to check and see if there are any drafts. This will cause heat loss, so if you feel a draft or notice that a window or door is not properly sealed, be sure to add some caulking or fix the seal.
Clean Up Your Fireplace
There are so many benefits to having a fireplace! Not only does it add extra heat during the cold months, but it also creates a cozy and inviting vibe. Be sure to sweep up your fireplace and check to ensure your vents are working properly so that you can use it to the fullest this season. If there’s any cause for concern, call a professional for a routine sweep and inspection.
Add Some Extra Blankets and Pillows
There’s no doubt about it; we all want to be cozy and warm inside, during this time of the year. If your home needs a little warmth and comfort, try adding in some extra pillows and blankets, and maybe even a few candles. This will not only keep you warm but will add a lovely, wintery yet cozy feel to your place!
With a few routine check-ups and clean-ups, your home will be good to go and ready for winter in no time! Once complete, all that’s left is to turn up the heat, light some candles, pour yourself a glass of wine, and get ready for a long, but cozy, season.
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