As the weather starts to cool down, it’s time to prepare your home for the fall and winter months. Whether you’re dealing with chilly winds, heavy rain, or snow, a little preparation can go a long way in keeping your house cozy and your energy bills low. Let’s discuss how to get your home ready for winter.
Inspect Your Heating System
Before the cold really sets in, make sure your heating system is ready to go. This includes checking your furnace, heat pump, or boiler. Schedule a professional tune-up to ensure everything is running efficiently and safely. Don’t forget to replace or clean filters to keep the air circulating well.
Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can make your heating system work overtime. Check for gaps and cracks around windows and doors. If you find any, use weatherstripping or caulking to seal them up. This simple step can save you money and keep your home warm and snug.
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves can clog gutters and downspouts, leading to water damage and ice dams. Clean them out before the leaves pile up and consider installing gutter guards to make the job easier. Ensure downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation to prevent any issues with leaks or flooding.
Check Your Roof
Look at your roof (or hire a professional) to ensure it’s in good shape before winter. Look for missing, damaged, or loose shingles that could allow water to seep in. A well-maintained roof is essential for protecting your home from harsh winter weather.
Trim Trees and Bushes
Overgrown trees and bushes can become problematic in winter storms, potentially damaging your home or power lines. Trim back any branches that are too close to your house and remove dead or weak limbs that might break under the weight of snow or ice.
Prepare Your Plumbing
Frozen pipes can cause major headaches and expensive repairs. To avoid this, insulate any exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas like basements, attics, or crawl spaces. Don’t forget to disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor faucets to prevent freezing.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With heating systems running and fireplaces roaring, the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning increases during the colder months. Test all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed.
Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Don’t wait until the first snowfall to realize you’re out of supplies. Stock up on essentials like salt, sand, shovels, and ice melt. Make sure your snow blower is in working order and keep some extra blankets and warm clothing on hand in case of a power outage.
Reverse Ceiling Fans
Most ceiling fans have a switch that allows them to run in reverse, which pushes warm air down into the room. Use this feature in the winter to keep your rooms more comfortable without cranking up the heat.
Add Insulation
If your home feels drafty or your heating bills are sky-high, consider adding more insulation. Focus on the attic, as heat rises and can escape through the roof. Proper insulation will keep the warmth in and the cold out, making your home more energy efficient.
Call Ferris Home Improvements
For over 20 years, Ferris Home Improvements has been a trusted name serving Delaware, and parts of Pennsylvania and Maryland. What started as a one-man operation has grown into a skilled team with over 40 years of combined experience serving Newark and Rehoboth. Whether you need roofing, window installations, or kitchen remodeling, our expert craftsmen are here to help. We take on projects of all sizes and offer personalized service from design to installation. As a local, family-owned business, we’re proud of the work we do and dedicated to ensuring complete customer satisfaction. Contact us today to learn how we can help you with your home project.