10 Home Maintenance Tips to Use This Winter
Before winter storms wreak havoc, be sure to take some preventative measures so your home doesn’t end up paying the price. For example, we suggest making a list of ten indoor and outdoor maintenance items that you should regularly attend to. In this way, you can avoid having to pay for any repairs when Spring arrives.
- Check your fireplace — Having your chimney cleaned yearly will reduce the risk of fire in your home.
- Clean your gutters — Gutter backups are one of the primary reasons for wall damage, both to your home’s exterior and interior, as well as problems with its foundation.
- Prepare your winter storm kit — Before a storm arrives, stock up on essentials like shovels, ice scrapers, and pet-safe deicer. Also, check your flashlights and generator to make sure the batteries are fresh and they have enough gas.
- Clear your roof — After every winter storm, make sure to rake your roof. This will prevent ice dams from forming and causing damage to your roof. A specialist roof rake is the best tool for the job!
- Clear ice dams — In order to prevent any damage, clear your roof and gutters of ice accumulation. If you have heat cables, remember to activate them.
- Clean out your entryway — You can create more space in your home for weather-related items by getting rid of anything you don’t need in your mudroom or entryway. A boot tray will keep your floors clean and tidy.
- Use storm windows — By updating your current windows and doors to storm windows and doors, you will be insulating your home much better. Spending less money heating your home is an added bonus!
- Prevent frozen pipes — Disconnect outside hoses from faucets and make sure exterior pipes are insulated – this includes windows, doors, and any unheated areas in your house. Additionally, set your thermostat to 55 degrees Fahrenheit or higher before leaving.
- Prevent draughts — By caulking your windows and attaching a door sweep, you can prevent cool air from seeping into your home and save money on heating costs. Also, be sure to check the weatherstripping around your doors.
- Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors — Keep you and your loved ones safe this season by making sure your carbon monoxide detectors are in good working condition.
When eaves are not well installed, your home is exposed to the harsh impacts of weather. Our team of experts at Roof Wizards is here to help you come to the right decision! If you have more questions about roofing materials, or you’re ready to get a new roof installed, contact us today and get your free estimate.