When the air turns chilly and the leaves start falling, you know winter isn’t far behind. Now’s the time to prepare your home for the bitter cold! As a Delaware resident, you know this means more than just changing your wardrobe—it means checking your gutters, insulation, roof, and other exterior elements. So, where do you start? Begin by referencing this essential checklist for getting your home ready for winter.
Clean Your Gutters
Gutters filled with leaves, pine needles, and other debris can spell disaster when it starts snowing. As the snow melts and meets resistance at the gutters, it refreezes along the eaves, causing ice dams that can damage the gutters, shingles, and attic insulation. Regular gutter cleaning every fall is essential to prevent ice dams and protect your home.
Maintain Your Gutters
Winter weather can be particularly harsh in Delaware. This makes gutter maintenance a crucial task. Besides cleaning out leaves and other debris, check your gutters for cracks, rust, and poor stability. This would also be the perfect time to think about getting gutter guards to help prevents debris build up. Don’t forget to include the downspouts in your inspection. If they don’t have extenders guiding runoff at least 4 to 6 feet from the foundation, add them now.
Insulate Your Home Properly
Insulation isn’t just about keeping the cold out; it’s about making your home more energy-efficient. Here’s how to improve home insulation:
- Add more insulation to the attic floor.
- Install gaskets in outlets and switches.
- Seal the gaps around ventilation fans, electrical wiring, and ductwork.
- Insulate your pipes to prevent them from freezing.
Check the Roof for Damage
The roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Inspect it for damage and signs of wear before the first winter storm hits. Be on the lookout for loose or missing shingles, damaged flashing, a sagging roofline, and other problems. Then, schedule roof repair if needed.
Inspect Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors make your home less comfortable and spike your energy bill. Proper window and door maintenance for your home for winter includes the following:
- Inspect the caulk and weather stripping and replace them if needed.
- Add door sweeps to exterior doors.
- Add draft stoppers to windowsills.
- Install window film for an extra barrier against the cold.
Drain Outside Faucets
Before the first deep freeze of the season, disconnect garden hoses and drain your exterior faucets. In Delaware, where temperatures can drop significantly in the winter, this simple step could save you a world of trouble by preventing frozen and burst pipes.
Choose Ferris Home Improvements to Help Winterize Your Home
Preparing your home for the changing season is easier with expert assistance. Ferris Home Improvements, a local, family-owned and operated home improvement company, is here to help. Our team has over 40 years of experience and is highly involved in the community. Because we account for the specific needs of Delaware homes and businesses, our services are a cut above the rest. Don’t let the cold weather catch you by surprise—contact us at 302-998-4500 for help getting your Delaware home ready for winter.