5 WAYS TO WINTERIZE YOUR HOME

Purchasing or building a new home requires a pretty large investment. So, it only makes sense to protect that investment however you can. One way to do that is by taking preventative measures with seasonal home maintenance. With that in mind, we’re sharing five ways to winterize your home. Check them out below!

1. ROOFS

One of the most common causes of winter roof damage is the build-up of snow and ice in the gutters and roof of your home. When an ice dam occurs, it prevents water from draining from the roof properly, which then causes it to pool and eventually leak inside the home. To winterize your home and prevent ice dams, repair loose shingles and other areas of concern before winter makes an appearance. It’s also essential to clear snow from your roof after a storm with heavy snowfall.

2. RAIN GUTTERS

Cleaning leaves and debris from your gutters is an important step in winterizing your home. If debris is left inside the gutters, it can block natural water flow. Any standing water left inside will turn to ice in the winter and may damage your roof and home. Be sure to clear gutters before snowfall and consider installing heat tape to keep gutters clear of water and ice.

3. EXTERIOR CONCRETE

The winter elements can be especially harsh on exterior concrete. Ice, standing snow, and salt can cause excessive cracking in concrete. To prevent concrete damage from occurring, take the time to seal the surface of your home’s exterior concrete in the fall. Rather than using ice melt or salt to clear ice from your driveway and sidewalks, opt for sand which will provide traction without damaging the concrete. When possible, don’t park on concrete surfaces after driving on wet, freshly salted streets until your car’s undercarriage has thoroughly thawed and dried.

4. FURNACE FILTERS

Don’t wait until the last minute to ensure your furnace is working in tip-top condition! Waiting too long can mean being without heat once the first cold snap hits, as furnace repair companies are often the busiest around that time. When cooler temperatures hit, inspect the furnace and be sure to check your furnace filter and replace it if needed.

5. SPRINKLER SYSTEMS & HOSES

Winterize your home’s sprinkler systems and hoses before temperatures fall below freezing to reduce the risk of burst pipes and other winter water damage. If water is left in pipes or sprinkler heads, it can cause the pipes to freeze. Turn off the water and drain your home’s sprinkler lines to prevent damage to your yard’s irrigation systems. In addition, remove garden hoses from outside valves.

Taking the time to winterize your home now can prevent unnecessary damage from occurring. Not only will this save you the headache of dealing with an issue down the road, but it can also save you from costly repairs. For more tips on preparing your home for winter, get in touch with our team.