With cooler air and shorter days, winter is just around the corner. For homeowners, this means more than just digging out cozy sweaters and planning holiday meals. It’s time to prepare your house for the cold, snow, and ice to come. While you might remember to check the furnace or clean the chimney, some crucial winterizing tasks often get overlooked.
Taking care of these forgotten projects now can save you from costly repairs and major headaches later.
1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
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Clogged gutters are a major winter hazard. When filled with debris, they can’t drain melting snow, leading to ice dams. These ice ridges can damage your roof and cause leaks.
To prevent this, clean your gutters and downspouts before the first freeze. You can DIY with a ladder and gloves or hire a pro. Ensure downspouts direct water at least three feet away from your foundation to prevent damage.
2. Seal Drafty Windows, Outlets, and Switches
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Cold air can sneak into your home through tiny gaps, like windows, electrical outlets, and switch plates on exterior walls. These drafts can waste 5% to 30% of your energy use, making your heating system work harder and raising your bills.
Use a shrink film window kit to block drafts and create insulation. For outlets and switches, install foam socket sealers behind faceplates. Sealing these leaks keeps your home cozy and cuts heating costs.
3. Winterize Outdoor Equipment
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Before winter, empty fuel from gas-powered equipment to prevent engine issues. Disconnect propane tanks from grills and check for damage. Store all equipment in a dry, sheltered spot like a garage to avoid rust and brittleness.
4. Protect Outdoor Faucets and Hoses
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Prevent burst pipes this winter! Disconnect and drain garden hoses, turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets, and open spigots to drain remaining water.
For extra protection, cover outdoor faucets with insulated foam covers. Save yourself from costly water damage!
5. Elevate Items Stored in Sheds and Garages
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Moisture from melting snow or condensation can seep into garages and sheds, damaging items stored on the floor. Cardboard boxes, tools, and holiday decorations are all at risk of water damage or rust.
To protect your belongings, get them off the ground using shelving units, wall-mounted racks, or wooden pallets. This simple step will keep your items dry and in good condition all winter long.
Prepare Your Property for Winter and Stay Worry-Free
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By preparing beforehand for winters, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure everything is in working order come spring. A little preparation now goes a long way, allowing you to rest easy knowing your property is truly ready for whatever winter brings. Stay warm and worry-free