As winter settles in, equip your home to withstand the chill and create a safe and cozy environment for your family. Here are a few tips for winter home maintenance. It’s not too late to prepare your property for cold weather.
Home Maintenance Tasks for Winter
Seal Gaps
Gaps around doors and windows allow drafts into your living spaces, leading to a colder and less energy-efficient home. Combat drafts with cost-effective materials like caulk and weatherstripping to seal these gaps. The result is airtight seals that significantly improve the warmth and comfort of your living spaces.
Winter Home Maintenance: Add Insulation
Insulation acts as a shield against winter’s cold. Add insulation, focusing on accessible areas such as the attic, crawlspace, and basement. Wear protective gear to inspect the insulation for signs of wear, damage, and places where it may be lacking. Bolstering insulation in these spaces enhances your home’s ability to retain warmth, leading to energy savings in the long term.
Detach Hoses
Safeguard your home’s plumbing by detaching garden hoses from outdoor spigots. Wrapping these spigots with insulation is an additional precautionary measure. Even if you need to use a hose during winter, disconnect and store it after each use. You’ll prevent water from freezing inside the hose and causing ice to back up into the pipe, leading to damage.
Check Drainage Around the Property
Effective drainage is essential, especially in winter when ice poses a hazard. Start by inspecting the gutters to verify they are clear of debris that might impede water flow. Additionally, confirm that downspouts direct water away from your home and pathways on the property. Proper drainage protects your foundation from damage and prevents ice from accumulating in high-traffic areas, reducing the risk of slips and falls.
Stock Up on Ice Melt
Proactive preparation for winter storms includes purchasing an ice melt product ahead of bad weather. Salting the sidewalk, pathways, and driveway before a storm hits will boost safety. It makes navigating your property easier post-snowfall and eliminates the need for a last-minute rush to the hardware store when the weather forecast turns ominous.
Order a Furnace Inspection During Winter Home Maintenance
Schedule a professional inspection of your furnace before the winter intensifies. A well-maintained furnace keeps your home comfortably warm and operates more efficiently, saving you money on energy costs.
By meticulously addressing these winter home maintenance tasks, you fortify your property against the season’s challenges and create a welcoming and secure haven to spend the colder months comfortably.
Best Choice Inspections offers home inspection services for customers in Knoxville, TN, and the surrounding area. If you’re buying or selling a house, contact us to schedule an appointment.