Winter is almost here, and it is time to learn how to protect your home from the cold days. Preparing your home for severe weather will not only protect it from the elements but also ensure you are comfortable during the harsh weather conditions. The key segments that can make a radical difference include insulation, heating, landscaping, and safety measures. Below are some important points that should be discussed in this article regarding how to prepare your property for the winter season. To learn more in detail, keep reading this guide till the end.
1. Insulation and Sealing
Insulation and sealing of the house should be done well to keep the house warm during winter and at the same time reduce the cost of energy bills. Inspect the present insulation in the attic, walls, and floor to determine if it meets the recommended standards. Caulking is also effective in filling the gaps and cracks that are found in the windows, doors, and other openings to prevent the free flow of drafts and heat. By addressing these areas, you can heat your house more and spend less on energy bills.
2. Heating System Maintenance
The heating system in your home must be in proper working condition during winter. Plan for a professional check-up of your furnace, boiler, or heat pump to ascertain its efficiency in functioning. Also, check whether you need to buy heating oil for home heating and if you will need to order some to have it in stock during the season. Preventive maintenance would eliminate situations where a breakdown occurs leading to more severe damage.
3. Landscaping and Yard Preparation
You must take some steps to protect your home and yard from the elements of winter, especially from snow and ice. Prune trees and shrubs because some branches may snap under the pressure of snow. Remove all leaves and debris from the gutters and downspouts so that rainwater drains away efficiently. In case you are thinking of making some alterations to your landscape, it is always wise to get excavating services, when the ground has not frozen yet.
4. Plumbing Protection
Low temperatures can severely affect your plumbing system, causing pipes to burst and leading to expensive repairs. Wrap pipes that are exposed in cold areas like basements, attics, or garages. Turn off all outdoor faucets and ensure that all hoses are disconnected and drained to minimize the chances of them freezing. Another way to prevent your pipes from freezing is to ensure that your home is well-heated and the indoor temperature is steady.
5. Safety Measures
The risks associated with winter are numerous, therefore, you should take necessary precautions to ensure that you and your family as well as your property are secure. Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and monitor their performance to confirm that they are working optimally. Make sure that the walkways and driveways are shoveled and cleared of snow and ice to avoid accidents. Also, prepare an emergency box containing relevant items like blankets, flashlights, and canned food in the event of blackouts.