Preparing Your Home for Winter: Tips for Comfort and Savings
While snow-covered landscapes can be beautiful when viewed from the warmth of your home, the cold, windy, and intense weather that winter brings can also wreak havoc on it. Taking proactive measures to protect your home is crucial for maintaining its value during this harsh season. About 70% of all homeowners' insurance claims stem from weather-related damage. Whether you're a first-time owner or have years of experience, we at Absolute Builders NY recommend these tips for preparing your home for winter.
5 Essential Ways to Get Your Home Winter Ready
Inspect and Insulate Your Pipes
Why it Matters:
Frozen and burst pipes are some of the most common and costly problems homeowners face. The combination of cold temperatures and stagnant water can cause pipes to crack, leading to significant water damage and expensive repairs..
How to Prepare:
Start by identifying vulnerable pipes, especially those in unheated areas like basements, attics, and exterior walls. Insulate these pipes using foam sleeves or pipe insulation tape, which can be found at any hardware store. Insulating both hot and cold water pipes helps maintain their temperature and reduces the risk of freezing. If you plan to be away from your home for an extended period,consider letting your faucets drip slowly to keep water moving and prevent freezing.
Trim Overhanging Branches
Why it Matters:
Heavy snowfall and high winds can cause branches and trees to break and fall onto your home, leading to significant damage and potential safety hazards.
How to Prepare:
Walk around your property to see if any branches hover over your home or driveway. Also, check for any trees that appear unhealthy. Prune any weak or overhanging branches that you can safely reach, and for larger jobs, contact a professional tree service company to remove any potential dangers.
Seal Windows and Doors
Why it Matters:
Drafty windows and doors can lead to uncomfortable living conditions and higher energy bills, as your heating system works overtime to maintain a comfortable temperature.
How to Prepare:
Conduct a simple draft test by holding a candle near window sand doors. If the flame flickers, you may have a draft. Use weather stripping to seal gaps around windows and doors, and consider applying window insulation film for an extra layer of protection. This easy fix can dramatically improve your home's energy efficiency during the cold months.
Clean the Gutters
Why it Matters:
Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which occur when melting snow refreezes at the roof's edge. This can prevent water from draining properly, causing leaks and significant water damage inside your home.
How to Prepare:
Make sure your gutters are clear of debris. After removing leaves and dirt, consider installing gutter guards to help prevent future debris buildup. Additionally, ensure that downspouts direct water away from your home to prevent frost heave,which could shift and crack your foundation.
Check Your Heating System
Why it Matters:
A malfunctioning heating system in the dead of winter will send a chill throughout the house, possibly freezing pipes. Additionally, winter is the busiest time of the year for plumbers, so you may face delays in scheduling an appointment.
How to Prepare:
Schedule a professional inspection of your heating system or replace the furnace filter if you have central heating. Clean filters improve airflow, enhance efficiency, and extend the unit's lifespan. If you rely on space heaters, be sure to follow these safety tips. Lastly,stocking up on extra firewood is always a good idea if you have a fireplace!
Maximize Comfort and Savings by Preparing Your Home for Winter
Taking a proactive approach to preparing your home for winter can save you from costly repairs and ensure a warm, safe living environment for you and your family. After all, the best way to enjoy the winter season is knowing your home is winter-ready.