Be Proactive
Homeowners who take the lead by performing winter inspections to be sure things around the house are safe and sound have an advantage over those who just live in the moment. By not planning ahead, there can be several months ahead of emergency repairs and costly fix ups caused by the cold or snow.
Here are some tips that the average homeowner can follow to make sure their homes are winterized and ready for the cold months to come.
1. Inspect Your Furnace
Your furnace is quite important during the winter months and no more so than when it breaks down during the freezing days and nights. Maintaining the furnace is a priority to ensure your family is safe and warm. If you are not experienced at cleaning your furnace, hire a professional to give it an inspection and seasonal cleaning. Your furnace will be working hard during the cold months and it needs to be cared for properly.
2. Insulation is Cost-Effective
Drafty homes act as if you were throwing money right out of the window. Your heating bills will be higher and it take more energy in general to keep your home comfortable. Check all windows, vent holes, fireplaces, and doors for air leaks and use weather stripping or caulking to seal them off and keep the cold out and the warm in. Double insulating basements and attics may be the best bet for older homes.
3. Stock Up On Staples
While it may not have anything to do directly with your home, it can be highly cost-effective to stock up on staples that would get your family through an unexpected snow or ice storm that may not out power or leave you stuck in the house. It can be dangerous and costly to venture out to the grocery store during bad weather. Store bottled water, flashlights, batteries, and medications in a cool, dry place.
4. Be Ready for the Storm
In addition to your emergency staples, make sure you invest in a good, solid snow shovel that will not get easily broken during a heavy snow. It is also good to invest in a shovel that is easy on your back and the rest of your body to prevent injury. After shoveling the walkways and driveways, use ashes or kitty litter to create traction. Be careful with rock salt as it can damage your pavements and driveways, creating more costly repairs. Preventing unnecessary slip and fall injuries from pedestrians is important to your bank account.