Winter is fast approaching, and it’s time to prepare your home for the cold weather ahead. In this article, we’ll explore various ways to winterize your home, ensuring it remains safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient during the chilly months. The insights provided come from an interview with Shawn Millett, a seasoned home inspector with Key Beginning Home Inspections, who specializes in winterization inspections. So, let’s dive into the essential steps you can take to protect your largest financial asset – your home.
1. Protecting the Exterior:
- Landscaping: Ensure proper grading around your home to prevent water from collecting near the foundation. Trim overhanging tree branches to avoid potential roof damage.
- Leaf and Debris Removal: Piles of leaves and debris near your home can promote mold growth and attract insects and rodents. Keep your yard clean.
- Irrigation Lines: Drain and blow out your irrigation lines to prevent freezing and costly damage.
2. Roof Maintenance:
- Flashing and Sealing: Inspect and seal any gaps or cracks in the flashing and sealant around vents and roof penetrations to prevent water infiltration.
- Damaged Shingles: Replace damaged or missing shingles to ensure proper water runoff and prevent leaks.
- Debris Removal: Clear your roof of debris to prevent water dams and ice buildup during freezing temperatures.
- Exposed Fasteners: Ensure that exposed fasteners holding roof components are properly sealed to prevent leaks.
3. Gutters and Downspouts:
- Clean Gutters: Regularly clean and maintain your gutters to prevent ice dams and damage to your home’s foundation.
- Downspout Extensions: Extend downspouts at least six feet away from the foundation to divert water away from the house.
4. Crawl Space and Ventilation:
- Seal Crawl Space Vents: During the winter, seal crawl space vents to prevent cold air from entering, reducing drafts inside the home.
- Insulate Water Lines: Insulate both hot and cold water lines in your crawl space to prevent freezing and conserve energy.
5. Outdoor Water Sources:
- Disconnect Hoses: Remove hoses from outdoor spigots and drain them to prevent freezing and damage.
- Insulate Hose Bibs: Use inexpensive styrofoam covers to insulate hose bibs and protect them from freezing.
6. Exterior Lighting:
- Test Outdoor Lights: Ensure that all exterior lights are functional to enhance safety and visibility during dark winter evenings.
7. Fire Safety:
- Chimney Inspection: Schedule a certified chimney sweep to inspect and clean your chimney to prevent house fires.
- Smoke and CO Detectors: Replace the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working correctly.
8. Energy Efficiency:
- Check Weather Stripping: Inspect and replace weather stripping and door sweeps to reduce drafts and conserve energy.
- Ceiling Fan Direction: Reverse the direction of ceiling fans to circulate warm air downward and improve heating efficiency.
- Attic Ventilation: Ensure proper ventilation in your attic by clearing soffit vents to prevent mold growth and protect your home’s structure.
- Dryer Vent Cleaning: Clean the dryer vent to prevent lint buildup, which can pose a fire hazard.
Bottom Line:
Winterizing your home is not only about staying warm but also protecting your home from potential damage and ensuring it remains energy-efficient. By following these tips and taking a proactive approach to home maintenance, you can enjoy a cozy and secure winter season while also potentially saving on energy costs. Remember that regular inspections and proper maintenance can go a long way in preserving your home’s value and comfort. So, take the time to prepare your home for winter, and you’ll be thankful when the cold weather arrives.
Watch the Full Interview with Shawn, Johnny, and Angela here!