In between the summer and winter seasons, there is autumn. It’s called fall in some places because leaves fall from the trees at that time. It is the time of the year when people delight in the view of fall foliage, going apple picking, and taking a sip on pumpkin-spiced lattes. There are many exciting and relaxing things to do during the said season, which can often distract people from the essential things that need to be done.
If you wish to protect your family and house from the cold weather, you should not procrastinate. Thankfully, this post will cover crucial suggestions to help you prepare your home for the coming season.
Five Winter Preparation Tips for Your House
Ice, cold weather, and snow can cause much damage to your house. With the five preparation pointers we have listed below, you can help reduce the possible damage these elements can cause to your home.
1. Inspect your fireplace
See that your fireplace, chimney, and vents are clean and in good working condition before you burn wood logs. If any repair work in your fireplace needs to be done, make sure to have it fixed before the winter season occurs. Doing this will help avoid chimney fires and carbon monoxide from polluting your house.
Whatever form of heater you are using at home, always remember to be careful. According to research, house fires are much more rampant during winter. Moreover, heating equipment is involved in 1 of every 6 reported home fires. Should a fire break out in your house and cause damages, make sure to contact companies that offer restoration services to deal with the said issue. You can browse their website to learn more about the mentioned service.
2. Insulate windows
Drafty windows or air leakages are among the culprits of increased energy bills during the winter, as this forces your heating system to go overdrive to keep your house warm. In return, this can also create health threats for the residents. Insulating your windows, particularly the drafty ones, is vital to preserving your house’s coziness and warmth in the middle of the cold weather.
3. Check your roof
Nobody wants a leaky roof after the snow strikes. A roof inspection is a must as this can help you see any possible problems before a winter chill occurs. Some roof issues are easy to do yourself if you’re comfortable working on heights. Leaking roofs are also factors that can cause water damage in your house.
Problems like that can be a risk for your house and may affect its structure if not repaired immediately. Restoration companies that offer water removal services can help deal with the said issue should you encounter one in your house. No matter the season, inspecting your roof regularly is essential as this acts as your house’s first line of defense.
4. Trim tree branches
Winter pruning will not just benefit trees as this can also be beneficial for your home to prevent interference with structures or walkways. Pruning or trimming trees is a crucial thing to do in preparation for winter. This practice is vital if you have a tree next to your house.
Extended tree branches on your roof can cause water to flow into cracks in your home’s walls or sidings. When cutting branches, make sure any limbs or branches are at least 2 meters away from your home to avoid any possible concerns on your house.
5. Clean your gutters and downspouts
Make certain to clean your rain gutters from time to time. A clogged gutter can harm your house’s roofing, siding, and wood trim. It can even cause leakages and ice dams when water backs up, leading to expensive repairs. Tighten your gutters and downspout brackets regularly and replace any damaged or worn materials if needed.
