Now that we are officially in the month of December, it is time for homeowners to ensure that their property is fully prepared for all the challenges that come along with the colder weather. It is important as a homeowner to be proactive when it comes to home maintenance during the winter, not only to ensure that you and your family are safe and comfortable, but also to help prevent any repairs that could become costly down the line.
Here are some home maintenance tasks that every homeowner should prioritize for the winter:
1 – Inspect your heating system.
Every New Englander can attest to the bone chilling weather that the winter season brings, so it is important to make sure that the heating system in your home is up and running so that you and your family can stay comfortable. For winter home maintenance, clean the vents throughout your home, change the air filters, and consider tuning up any boilers or furnaces that might need to be tweaked. If needed, consider scheduling a professional inspection of your heating system to double check that everything is working properly. Maintaining your heating system will help to avoid any breakdowns throughout the season, when you will need it the most!
2 – Check and seal all windows and doors.
As part of your winter home maintenance, inspect all the windows and doors throughout your home and seal any cracks and gaps that you see to insulate the heat. If you think you will need an extra layer of insulation, consider purchasing some plastic film for your windows which can make a drastic difference. Since you will be spending money on your heat bill throughout the winter, you want to make sure that there are no drafts!
3 – Clean your gutters.
During the fall, leaves and other debris can often clog gutters which can create severe water damage. Before the winter season fully sets in and New England experiences snowfall, clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure that they are draining properly. This home maintenance item can save you a lot of money down the line!
4 – Examine your roof and make any necessary repairs.
Before the winter, your roof should be in good shape, this way you will not have to worry about any structural damage. Check for any missing or damaged shingles and take the time to clear all the leaves and debris that have accumulated over the fall season. It is important to clear these away as the moisture of them overtime can create extra moisture and cause rotting on your roof.
5 – Maintain your fireplace and chimney.
If you have a fireplace, hire a professional chimney sweep to remove any buildup and make sure that it is clean and free of debris before you will be using it. Also take some time to inspect your fireplace for any signs of wear and tear, such as cracks, that should be fixed up before it is in use.
6 – Protect your pipes.
It is very common for pipes to freeze during the winter, and if they burst you can experience significant damage. This is a home maintenance winter item that is very important! Check for any exposed pipes in areas throughout your home that are unheated such as the basement, attic, or in your garage, and if you see any, be sure to insulate them. If you are planning to travel during the winter, keep your thermostat set to a minimum temperature to prevent your space from getting too cold.
7 – Make sure you are prepared for possible power outages.
No matter how much you can prepare with home maintenance, emergencies such as power outages can still occur during the winter. Make sure that you are properly stocked up with everything you will need in case of a power outage, including batteries, extra blankets, flashlights, water bottles, and non-perishable food.