Essential Tips for a Winter-Ready Home
While our winters may be “mild” compared to our mid-western and Northern neighbors, it’s still crucial for Seattleites to prepare their home to withstand colder temperatures, snow, and ice each year. Proper winter home maintenance not only will help to ensure your home stays comfortable and safe, but it can also help you avoid costly repairs down the road. Safeguard your property and enjoy a warm, worry-free winter season with these essential winter home maintenance tips:
1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
One of the quickest ways to lose heat in your home is through drafty windows and doors. Before winter hits, check for any gaps, cracks, or worn weather stripping that could allow cold air to seep in. Add or replace weather stripping or caulking around windows and doors to prevent drafts. This can significantly improve your home’s insulation and energy efficiency. You could also consider upgrading to storm windows if your windows are older or single-paned.
2. Prepare Your Heating System
Your heating system will be working overtime during the winter, so it’s essential to make sure it’s in top shape before the cold sets in. Have a professional inspect your furnace/ductwork to ensure it’s operating efficiently and safely, and change filters regularly to improve air quality and energy efficiency. If you use a fireplace, have it cleaned and inspected by a professional as well.
3. Insulate Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common winter home maintenance issues and can lead to costly water damage. Pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages are at the greatest risk of freezing. Use foam insulation sleeves or heat tape to protect them from the cold, and on extremely cold days, keep cabinet doors under sinks open to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
4. Clean Your Gutters
When gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, they can’t properly drain melting snow and rain, which can lead to ice dams and water damage. Remove leaves, twigs, and any other debris from your gutters before the first snowfall, and inspect your gutters for signs of sagging or damage. Repair or replace any sections as needed, and consider installing gutter guards to prevent future clogs from forming.
5. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter is the season when homes are sealed up tightly and heating systems run constantly, which can increase the risk of fire or carbon monoxide buildup. Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, and replace the batteries if necessary.
6. Check your Roof
Your roof is your first defense against snow and ice. Ensuring it’s in good condition and your attic is properly insulated will keep your home warmer and prevent ice dams. Look for damaged or missing shingles, as these can allow water to seep into your home when snow begins to melt. If necessary, hire a professional to inspect and make repairs.
7. Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Good winter preparation goes beyond just home maintenance – having the right tools and supplies on hand can make dealing with snowstorms easier and less stressful. Stock up on ice melt, salt, and snow shovels, as well as emergency kit supplies including flashlights, extra batteries, non-perishable food, and blankets in case of power outages during winter storms.
8. Protect Outdoor Spaces and Furniture
If you have outdoor spaces, now is the time to protect your furniture and equipment from the harsh elements. Drain, remove and store garden hoses, and shut off water to outdoor faucets to prevent any water left in the pipes from freezing and bursting. Move outdoor furniture into storage or cover it with waterproof covers to prevent damage from snow and ice.
By taking the time to complete these winter home maintenance tasks, you can reduce the likelihood of winter-related damage and enjoy a warmer, safeer home throughout the colder months!