As we’ve written before, it’s the end of the year. The birds have gone south, the leaves are all gone, and the snow is falling. Along with snow comes its usual hazards, and you’ll want to be ready this year. While you're preparing your house for winter weather, make sure to take a look at this checklist.
Winter Home Maintenance Checklist
Here’s everything you need to survive another winter in comfort and ease. Winter home maintenance tips include home prep work, preventative measures, and snow removal for after the storm hits. Scroll down to find out how to make your home ready for winter.
“Winter is coming.” - George R.R. Martin
To-Do Beforehand
When preparing home for winter be sure to lay down the essentials.
That means:
Be sure that your heating system is working correctly for starters, and then be sure that there are no drafts or breezes in your home that might affect the heat. Make sure the home is sealed up tight and will keep out the cold.
Keep in mind:
An ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Take measures to prevent the cold from creeping in, all in the form of a little home maintenance. Preparing your house for winter weather can include the following:
- Checking that your HVAC works properly
- Securing your windows
- Installing extra insulation if needed
- Make sure thermostat works
- Weatherstripping doors and windows
- Installing storm doors
- Caulking around windows
- Clearing out gutters
- Putting together a first aid kit
Safety Measures
At some point disaster could strike. The power could go out, it could take the heat down, or the snow could start to pile up.
When this occurs, winter survival is the key. Be sure you’re well stocked and well prepared for what happens.
For example:
Be sure to have everything ready for a power failure. You should know how to stay warm if you lose power. Make sure you have some of the following:
- Cell phones, fully charged
- Batteries
- Ice melt
- Food
- Flashlights
- Blankets
- Winter jackets
- Gloves, scarves, and hats
- Shovels
- Battery-operated radio
- Books or board games to keep everyone entertained
Snow Services
It’s important to have a good contractor on call in case a snowstorm comes and you need emergency service. If you need to be shoveled out, plowed out, or otherwise rescued, always have a number to call on hand.
This can be especially helpful if you need your roof raked or find roof dams clogging your gutters. Other services you might need after the storm include:
- Roof cleaning
- Snow plowing
- Electrical work
- Ice dam removal
- Driveway clearing
- Having a backup generator
Looking to hire a snow removal service? Request a free quote today!
Do you have any tips or tricks concerning winter safety? What about home improvement hacks to get you through the winter? Let us know in the comments below! Don’t forget to follow us on Facebook for more great tips and inspiration!
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