Everyone needs a little bit of winter home maintenance now and again. What about a checklist of things to do to your home for when it’s cold outside, to make it last?
Whether you’re an established homeowner or a new one, this checklist can help. Keep in mind, however, that your winter maintenance checklist will differ from, say, your summer one. That’s because there are different things you have to do to prepare your home for the winter season than the rest of the year.
Nonetheless, pipes aren’t the only maintenance need when it comes to winterizing your home. Read on to learn about an essential but often overlooked winter home maintenance checklist. Read along to learn more!
- Check the Heating System
The cold winter months can be extremely harsh on heating systems, therefore it is necessary to take the time to properly maintain and check it up. Intermittent checkups should also be done on an annual basis to make sure the system is working correctly. Additionally, it’s better to catch any potential issues early, before they can lead to larger and more expensive problems.
Regular maintenance and upkeep will prolong the life of the system and ensure maximum efficiency and comfort. Additionally, checking the heating system also helps to reduce energy costs as it reveals any potential leaks or issues that could be causing energy to be wasted. With regular checkups, a well-maintained heating system can keep a home warm and cozy throughout the coldest months.
- Inspect Plumbing Systems
Checking the plumbing system is a vital part of winter home maintenance and can help identify potential issues before they become major problems. Check for any freezing pipes, loose valves, aged fittings, and other problems. Make sure to take the necessary steps for proper insulation of both indoor and outdoor pipes.
Inspect the hot and cold water strips for any points of weakness and replace them if needed. Check all the water valves throughout the home. Maintain blend valves, filter systems, pumps, and appliances that use water such as a washing machine or dishwasher.
Without a proper checkup of plumbing systems, water damage can occur and cause disarray in the winter. Taking the time to check and include plumbing systems on a regular home maintenance checklist is an essential step in protecting one’s home during the coldest months.
- Ensure the Gutters and Downspouts are Clean
It is important to keep them in good condition, as they can be easily damaged by heavy snow and ice, which can cause water to back up and pour over the sides of the house, damaging the roof and exterior walls. To prevent this, it’s important to check and clean your gutters regularly.
Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris, flush them out with a hose, and check that the downspouts are clear. An occasional visual inspection is also important to make sure they remain in good condition.
Clean and maintained gutters and downspouts will help to reduce the risk of flooding, expensive repairs, and other unnecessary winter home maintenance.
- Seal Cracks and Holes
Sealing cracks and holes in your home is essential for winter home maintenance. Not only does this help to make your home more energy efficient, but it also prevents damage from water, snow, and cold air that can cause costly repairs.
Cracks and holes can also leave your home vulnerable to pests, like insects, rodents, or animals. Taking the time to inspect your home and seal off any cracks and holes can help you save money in the long run, as well as keep your home in good condition and temperature for the winter.
- Prepare the Insurance
Having the right insurance is an important part of winter home maintenance. It’s important to make sure your home is covered for potential damages caused by the weather. Snow, ice, gusts of wind, and severe cold can all cause damage to your home.
If any of these things occur, insurance can help to cover the cost of repairs. By preparing the insurance, you’re ensuring that your winter home maintenance is properly taken care of. Learning more info about getting insurance will help you avoid any costly repairs down the line while also knowing that you are prepared for anything that comes your way this winter.
- Prune and Trim Trees
Pruning is the removal of dead, damaged, and diseased branches and limbs while trimming is cutting back the rest of the tree to improve its shape and size. Pruning and trimming keep trees healthy and safe; preventing them from becoming overgrown and interfering with power lines, roofs, and other structures.
Pruning and trimming can also eliminate hazards that may form, such as dead or weak limbs that could break during strong winds or heavy snowfall. Finally, pruning and trimming can also increase the aesthetic of your home, making it not only safer but more attractive as well. To sum up, pruning and trimming trees is an essential part of any winter maintenance checklist.
- Monitor Weather Forecasts
If severe weather is expected, knowing ahead of time will give you a chance to prepare. It can help you know what measures to take such as blocking windows, bringing in outdoor furniture, and taking care of essential items exposed to the elements. Additionally, forecasts can help you identify potential roof damage before it occurs, making repairs easier.
Weather forecasts can also help you plan for efficient heating and cooling of your home. Knowing when to expect colder temperatures or heavy snow gives you more control of your energy costs. Finally, keeping an eye on the weather also helps you prepare for any maintenance schedule changes, ensuring you stay on top of essential winter home upkeep.
Complete the Winter Home Maintenance Checklist Today
It is essential to have a winter home maintenance checklist to handle any potential issues that arise during the cold months. Ensure that you have included all of these essential items and you are more likely to have a winter season that is peaceful and problem-free. Start your checklist today and be safe and secure this winter season!
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