Tips for Winterizing Your Home
Every winter it is important to prepare your home for the freezing temperatures and potential snowfall.
Heating the Inside
While the outside environment gets colder, you need your home to stay nice and warm inside. Some new homes are even built with heated floors that use electricity or water to consistently heat a room in your home. Make sure to get your heating and air conditioning systems checked to avoid any unexpected issues. The last thing you want is your heat not to work during the winter, so start this before the season even begins. For oil-fired furnaces or boilers, you can contact oil tank services NY for any needed maintenance or assistance. Otherwise, you might be stocking up on firewood for your chimney or wood-burning stove. Preparing early before the season starts can even save you money. If you wait to stock up, you might notice the prices go up as it gets closer to the colder season. Once you know your heating systems are in check and ready to get you through the winter, you can begin to inspect and winterize the outside of your home.
Preparing the Outside
From the outside of your house, you want to ensure all entryways are insulated and sealed shut. Check your doors and windows for any weak spots or cold air coming through in the molding or framework. If there is a gap between any siding and door frame, consider using silicone caulk or putty made to seal it up. Whether it’s freezing rain or heavy snow, you need your gutters cleaned out and free from any blockages. If left unchecked, these drainage systems can work improperly, leading to ice dams or a buildup of melted water in your home. Make sure your chimney is clean and ready to be used and that your gutters and drainage systems are clear to avoid potential water damage. Your roof also needs to be in good shape to withstand the winter and snow, so make sure you also want to check your entire roof for any damages, weak spots, or missing shingles. With your house secured, you can then prepare your lawn and garden for the winter to come. Turn off your outdoor garden hoses or faucets to prevent any water from freezing inside the pipes, including your sprinkler system if you have one.
While your home might be built to endure the harsh weather conditions, it is still important to take some annual measures of safety and preparation.