Mortgage Blog

Winterizing Tips for Homeowners

November 29, 2021 | Posted by: Marc Crossman

Fall seems to come and go in the blink of an eye. Is your house ready for the freeze?

Here are six tips homeowners should consider doing to prepare for the winter months ahead.

1. Clean the gutters and inspect the roof

Now is the time to get leaves out of the gutter. While you’re clearing leaves, inspect your roof for any loose, damaged or missing shingles. Buildup can prevent water from draining freely, increasing the chances of ice damming. When it warms up that water could drip inside an attic space and come through ceilings.

 2. Disconnect your garden hose

Is your garden hose still attached to the house? Simply disconnecting your hose can save you a lot of money. Any water still inside the hose will freeze and, as it expands, it can push backwards through the valve, causing the water line to freeze. Remove all attached garden hoses, drain, and store them. Shut off the valves and insulate the faucet.

 3. Check furnace and ventilation system filters

Furnaces, boilers and chimneys should be serviced at least once a year to clear any buildup and to keep them running efficiently. Make sure filters are cleaned or replaced as necessary and keep outdoor intake vents clear of obstructions to help prevent the headache of a furnace breakdown.

 4. Check caulking ans weather stripping

Check and replace if needed, the weather-stripping around the windows and door frames to prevent heat loss. Caulk around holes and openings to help prevent cold air from seeping in.

Head to your local hardware store to pick up some caulking and DIY the fix or look into hiring a professional.

 5. Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors

Residential fires are more common in winter, so it is important that all of your smoke detectors work. Check them monthly and replace batteries as needed. Also consider installing a carbon monoxide detector to avoid inadvertently trapping this toxic gas in your home.

6. Clear the yard

Trim trees and remove dead branches and debris from your yard. Trimming overgrown bushes and trees away from your house and electrical wires, will decrease your risk of property damage and power problems.

Now, enjoy those fireplace-filled weekends knowing you’re well-prepared for the winter!

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