Chances are you spend your winter tucked warmly indoors. Big issues can await your home this winter, though, if you don't take the proper steps to winterize it against the elements.
1. Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes can lead to major leaks and damages once the thaw arrives. A plumber can turn off outdoor faucets and insulate the valves and hose bibs against damage. Indoor pipes that are exposed to cold temperatures, such as those under sinks that back up to exterior walls, can also benefit from insulating to prevent freezing in the coldest weather.
2. Insulate Your Water Heater
Save money on your hot water heating by insulating the water heater. This is especially useful if your water heater is tucked into a cold basement or garage. A professional will cut an insulating blanket to fit your specific model of water heater. Once taped and secured in place your hot water tank will require less energy to keep the water warm.
3. Clean the Gutters
Don't let winter arrive before you clean out the gutters. Leaves, twigs, and other debris impede runoff from winter rains and snow melt. The water then backflows back beneath your shingles and causes ice dams and their resulting leaks. Even if you avoid the ice dam, the backflow can send water coursing down the siding, and rot problems can occur. Further, icicles are more likely to affect dirty gutters, and their weight can pose a hazard.
4. Seal Windows and Doors
Old, worn weather stripping can lead to major heat loss in winter. Have weatherstripping inspected for damage and replace any stripping that no longer seals properly. Now is also the time to have storm windows put back into the windows, if applicable to your home. You can also have little-used windows, or windows that are never opened in winter sealed in plastic to further guard against drafts and air leaks.
5. Prep Your Fireplace
If you have a fireplace, it's vital that you include it in your winter preparation. Have the chimney swept and inspected if you plan to use the fireplace. If you won't be using the fireplace, you still need to have the flue checked to make sure it closes properly so you don't lose heat from your home. The chimney cap should also be inspected to ensure it is properly fitted and secured. Finally, the flashing around the chimney and the brickwork itself requires an inspection to verify there are no water leaks.
Contact a home winterization service for more help preparing your house for the cold winter months.
Share23 November 2020
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