Fall has only begun, but winter will soon be upon us. So, while the weather is still moderate, here are a few good ways to prepare your home for the winter weather and all that comes with it.
Ways To Prepare Your Home for the Winter
Autumn has only started (in my neck of the woods, the leaves are almost at peak!), but before you know it, the winter season will arrive. For that reason, you want to take advantage of the fall and make sure your home is ready to combat any of the issues the winter weather brings. Here are a few effective ways to prepare your home for the winter.
Have Your HVAC Inspected
Nothing’s better than being warm and cozy on a chilly day. While a log fire is nice, it’s not always practical. While the weather is still pleasant, you should have a professional come and inspect your home’s HVAC system.
Your HVAC is responsible for heating, cooling, and ventilating your home—allowing you to maintain a healthy and comfortable climate. An HVAC technician ensures your system won’t break down on you and is operating efficiently. A well-running system heats your home without overworking itself and ramping up your electricity bills.
Check Your Home’s Drainage
The only thing worse than everything being frozen is when everything is melting. When the piles of snow and ice finally begin to melt, your home may be at risk of flooding or water damage if the water isn’t able to drain.
The best way to prepare your home for this winter issue is by clearing out your gutters and downspouts. You also want to check your property for areas where water could pool. If you notice any low points around your home, simply fill them in with loose soil.
Seal and Repair Your Home
Lastly, you want to perform some general home maintenance while it’s most convenient to do so. Common spots that you will want to reseal include windows, wooden exteriors, patios, and even masonry. Resealing these areas ensures that precious heat isn’t able to escape your home when you need it most.
You should also consider having a professional inspect your roof. Even if the issues seem inconsequential, small roof damage can be troublesome, especially after a winter storm leaves your roof under a blanket of snow. The weight of the snow may exasperate existing damage, and even the smallest openings allow moisture to enter and damage your property.
Moisture from winter storms can lead to mold and other forms of water damage, so addressing repairs before the first snowfall is crucial.
Once you prepare your home for winter, you can rest assured that the property is ready for anything. For those who like to migrate to warmer climates once winter comes, this preparation can allow you to enjoy your traveling plans without worrying about what’s happening back home.