As the comfort and coziness of the winter season approaches us, it’s important to remember that harsh winter conditions can pose a threat to our homes. From pipe bursts to icy rooftops, winter can quickly wreak havoc on your budget. Taking steps to prepare your home for winter can help mitigate damage, keep you safe, and avoid costly repairs.
Clean Your Gutters – Cleaning gutters before winter is crucial. Leaves and debris can quickly cause blockages, which slows water drainage and puts extra strain on your gutters and roof. Cleaning your gutters twice a year – in the spring and fall is recommended.
Wait Until Late Winter to Prune Trees & Shrubs – It can be tempting, but horticulturists advise waiting to prune until late winter. Winter pruning helps avoid the spread of serious diseases that are active during spring and summer growing seasons. Because the tree is dormant, winter pruning does not stimulate new growth, and trees are able to heal quicker.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans – According to EnergyStar, if you reverse your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise, you can save on heating costs. The fan will produce an updraft, pushing down the room heated air from the ceiling (remember, hot air rises). This is particularly helpful in rooms with high ceilings.
Re-Caulk Windows and Doors – Prevent unwanted moisture and air leaks by re-caulking your windows and doors. If you notice drafts in your home, or if your energy bills have spiked more than usual, this is a sign you may need to caulk around your windows and doors.
Turn Off Exterior Faucets – To prevent your pipes from freezing and bursting, it’s crucial to turn off your faucets and drain your pipes before winter. In most of the U.S., that is around late October or early November. Turn off your outdoor supply valve (usually located near your water meter), remove any hoses or connections, and consider purchasing an insulated cover to place on top of your faucet for the remainder of winter.
Get Your Chimney Inspected – If you have a fireplace, getting your chimney inspected and cleaned is paramount, before you burn any yule logs. The job of the chimney sweep is to remove soot, blockages and built-up creosote from your chimney liner, firebox, smoke chamber and damper. This cleaning will help create a safer operation of your system during the heating system.
Luckily, most winter preparation doesn’t require too much time or money. If all goes well, you can check off most of your to-do list in a weekend with a ladder, some help, and a good toolbox!