Written by Paul Denikin
Whether this is your first home or you’re a seasoned veteran homeowner, your home is always your last line of defense to the outside world. During the summer, flooding and high temperatures are big issues to be dealt with. Heat and high levels of liquid moisture can compromise the integrity of any home.
As winter looms, it brings with it new problems. Your yard is slowly becoming cluttered with leaves, and the temperatures are getting cooler. As the weather changes, it’s crucial that you tend to several home maintenance tasks before winter weather hits. Trying to mend a freezing pipe in December or trying to remove a tree branch from atop your roof (or worse, your neighbor’s roof), can be a bitter caveat to what could be an easy-going winter.
While the grind of winter can prove a tough opponent for you, it does not have to be a losing battle for all homeowners in the end. Get your home ready for winter and take these four precautions now.
Does your Heater Work Properly?
As temperatures drop, a properly working heater becomes increasingly important. Additionally, replace all the air filters on your roof. This will prevent any built-up particles from being blasted into the open air of your home when you turn the system on. Also, the vents should be cleaned properly to avoid the same problem. A simple replacement of a filter on an air unit or furnace can save you a bundle in costs this holiday season.
In addition, flush your water heating system. Play with the different off-and-on settings on the system to ensure the varying degrees of temperature match the needs of you and your family. Try these tips to also winterize your water heater and keep your faucets working well into the cold.
Check for Pipe Danger
Frozen or bursting pipework is a huge cause for concern during the colder months. Warmer temperatures tend to allow water flow in pipes to go smoothly. In contrast, winter months reveal the chemical issue water on metal causes. When water freezes, it sets and expands into whatever area it lies upon. That means frozen pipes eventually weaken and eventually pop-off at the faucet or the body of the pipe.
There are a few actions you can take before winter hits so that you don’t eventually have to deal with this issue of a burst pipe. Keep in mind that once a pipe breaks, it would take the skilled labor of a plumber to fix.
- Check your home for exposed pipework. Pipes that are outside or in a garage are prime for freezing temperatures. Also, pipes in uninsulated portions of the home (think: attic or basement) can also cause a burst.
- Insulate the pipes or the area which the pipes lay. Pipe Sleeves or Heat Cable are the best options for heating pipe. Also adding insulation to attics or basements where pipe is used is positive.
- Drain the pool and keep the outside valves slighted open. This will keep any excess water in the pipe to drain and not expand.
Check Your Windows for Damage
One thing you’ll need to check before winter arrives is the state of your windows. If you notice any cracks or damage to the glass, then heat could easily escape, causing your furnace to work even harder as it tries to keep your house at comfortable temperatures. Although this may sound like a simple task, you may need to bring in some pros to do the heavy lifting for your.
However, it’s important to keep in mind that window installation costs between $175 and $375 on average, though that all depends on the number of windows you’ll need replacing and the amount of work involved. Glass and window type will also determine how much you’ll spend.
Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Carbon monoxide is a gas that builds up from virtually any heating source. It, along with regular smoke, increases their presence because many start using wood furnaces and chimneys. When ventilation is not efficient, the accumulation of smoke can happen extremely quick.
Before you begin using the furnace or chimney, check to see if your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in working order. Alarms such as these are easy to check and should be done as a family so everyone understands the process.
By taking these steps before temperatures really drop, you can help ensure another winter free from unexpected home-related headaches and expenses. It’s well worth your time and effort! [click_to_tweet tweet=”Do these 4 things before temperatures drop to ensure a winter free from unexpected home-related headaches and expenses. It’s well worth your time and effort!” quote=”Do these 4 things before temperatures drop to ensure a winter free from unexpected home-related headaches and expenses. It’s well worth your time and effort!”]
Paul Denikin is passionate about sharing his experiences working on DIY projects to benefit people with special needs children.
Thank you Paul for your tips!
What questions do you have to ensure that your home is ready for winter? Please comment below. We look forward to hearing from you. Please share this with your friends and family. Living proactively allows you to invest your money in making memories, rather than forgoing a fun ski trip to fix a busted pipe. Don’t you agree?
Happy Holidays! May your days be blessed, filled with great joy and peace!
