Top 10 Ways to Prepare Your Home for Winter
Team at Verbode
#10. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
Even small gaps around windows and doors can make your home drafty and increase heating costs significantly. Start by checking the seals around each window and door for any cracks or spaces where air could leak in or out. Apply caulk to fill any gaps in the window frames, and consider adding or replacing weatherstripping around doors. For an added layer of insulation, you might even apply a plastic film to windows in rooms that tend to stay chilly. Taking the time to seal these small openings will create a cozier home and keep your energy bills in check.
#9. Clean Your Gutters
Falling leaves, twigs, and other debris can clog gutters, which may not seem like a big deal until temperatures drop. Clogged gutters prevent water from draining properly, and this can lead to ice dams, where water backs up, freezes, and potentially damages your roof or walls. Clean out gutters and downspouts thoroughly, removing all leaves and debris. If you have tall trees nearby, consider adding gutter guards to prevent future clogs and keep water flowing freely throughout the winter.
#8. Check Your Heating System
As temperatures drop, your heating system will be working overtime to keep your home warm, so it’s essential to make sure it’s operating efficiently. Schedule a maintenance appointment to have your furnace, boiler, or HVAC system inspected by a professional. They can clean and check parts, replace filters, and ensure everything’s in top shape. Additionally, changing filters regularly throughout the winter will improve air quality and efficiency. If you don’t have a programmable thermostat, consider installing one to help you regulate heating and reduce energy consumption when you’re not home.
#7. Insulate Pipes to Avoid Freezing
Frozen pipes are a major winter hazard, as they can burst and cause costly water damage. Focus on pipes that are in colder areas, like your attic, basement, garage, or those along exterior walls. Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation sleeves or use heat tape for pipes that are particularly vulnerable. You can also add insulation to areas around pipes to keep them warmer. If you’re expecting a particularly cold night, open cabinets under sinks to let warm air circulate around the pipes, and consider letting faucets drip slightly to prevent freezing.
#6. Protect Your Outdoor Furniture
Winter can be harsh on outdoor furniture and equipment, so it’s a good idea to protect anything you’re not bringing indoors. Clean your outdoor furniture thoroughly and cover it with weather-resistant covers to shield it from moisture, snow, and ice. If you’re using a grill year-round, cover it to prevent rust, or store it if you won’t be using it until spring. Taking these precautions will keep your outdoor setup looking new and extend its lifespan.
#5. Trim Overhanging Trees
Heavy snow and ice can cause weak or overhanging tree branches to break, which can pose a serious risk to your home, car, or power lines. Walk around your property and identify any branches that hang over your roof or are close to windows and power lines. Trim back these branches or hire a professional arborist for higher or difficult-to-reach branches. This will not only protect your property but also help the trees stay healthier and more resilient during winter storms.
#4. Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Don’t wait until the first storm to stock up on essentials! Prepare now by gathering snow shovels, ice melt, blankets, flashlights, and batteries. Preparing for snow and ice storms can make a big difference and help keep you and your family safe and comfortable if winter weather hits unexpectedly.
#3. Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance
If you have a fireplace, regular maintenance is essential to keep it safe and functional through the colder months. Soot, debris, and creosote (a highly flammable byproduct of wood burning) can build up inside your chimney, creating a fire hazard. Schedule a professional chimney cleaning and inspection annually to prevent chimney fires and ensure your fireplace is safe to use. If you have a gas fireplace, check the pilot light and ensure all components are clean and functioning properly. By investing a little time in maintenance, you’ll enjoy cozy, worry-free fires all winter long.
#2. Winterize Your Yard and Sprinkler System
Preparing your yard for winter goes beyond just covering plants. Disconnect and drain garden hoses, shut off exterior faucets, and drain your sprinkler system to prevent water from freezing in the lines, which can lead to burst pipes. For flower beds and plants, add a layer of mulch for insulation. Winterizing now will keep your yard and sprinkler system in better shape for spring and help you avoid damage from freezing temperatures.
#1. Install or Check Storm Windows
Storm windows provide an extra layer of protection against the cold, keeping your home warmer and helping to cut heating costs. If you have storm windows, check that they’re properly sealed and in good condition, with no cracks in the glass or gaps in the frame. For homes without storm windows, consider installing them, especially in rooms with older windows that are prone to drafts. This added layer can make a noticeable difference in your home’s temperature and can help prevent frost build-up on windows during the coldest days of winter.
Get Winter-Ready: Check Out Our Blog for More Tips!
By following these 10 steps, you’ll keep your home warmer, safer, and more comfortable all winter long. For more seasonal home tips or to stay updated on local real estate trends, subscribe to our blog, and don’t forget to check out our latest listings!