5 Ways To Prepare Your Home for Winter
Winter is a great season to spend time indoors with your family and loved ones. However, the ice, snow, and cold weather that comes with the season can cause great damage if you had not prepared for it adequately. That is why it is important to take a few days to ensure that your home is winter-ready. Below are a few tips on how to prepare your home for winter.
1. Insulate the Pipes
Any exposed pipes in an unheated area or running across walls could be a potential hazard during winter. The water inside these pipes can freeze when the temperature is low, causing them to burst. To prevent this, protect the pipes with insulation. You can purchase the insulation material from the hardware store and cut it to fit the length of the pipe. You should then wrap it around the pipe and secure it with tape if necessary.
2. Prune Your Trees
Just before the onset of winter, you should scan your home for any branches growing over the garage, power lines, your driveway, and the house, and prune them. During winter storms, such branches could break and cause irreversible damage. Ensure that you also look out for dead limbs as these too could break in the event of strong winds. Signs of dead limbs include smooth areas on the branch that are missing bark, dead leaves that remain attached to the trees while the rest have shed, and mushroom spouts.
3. Clean the Gutters
Any leaves and debris in your gutters can freeze into a large icy mass during winter, which may damage the roof. To prevent this, ensure that you remove all the dirt and debris from your gutters to allow water to drain. Using a leaf blower can speed up this process, but you may need to use your hands to finish the job. In this case, ensure that you wear gloves to avoid accidents. If you are reluctant about doing the job yourself, you can always hire a handyman's services.
4. Paint Your Wooden Surfaces
It is essential to protect the wooden surfaces in the interior and exterior of your house from the elements, especially in winter. If these surfaces are not properly maintained, they may rot or grow mold. This may lead to costly and unplanned repairs. The best way to prevent this is by painting and sealing the wooden areas.
As well as painting, you may want to think about upgrading or adding siding. A siding installation company will work to improve the exterior of your home, which can protect it against all harsh weather conditions. It can also increase the value of your home, as your home will be more safe and secure from potential extreme weather.
It is essential to note that mold could cause certain health issues, especially to individuals with pre-existing allergies. If you suspect that mold is growing in your house, you can contact experts like https://www.hlrestoration.com/mold-remediation/ for immediate inspection and removal.
5. Check Your Air Conditioning and Heating Systems
Before the cold season begins, it is essential to have your heating and air conditioning systems inspected by a certified HVAC contractor. They will help to ensure that your heat will be up and running when you need it. Ensure that you do this early enough to avoid any inconveniences to yourself and your family.
Like in any other season, your home should remain warm and comfortable during winter. Follow the above tips to ensure you can continue enjoying your abode during the cold season.
