When the colder months hit and temperatures drop, you spend a lot of time inside your home. But just how much have you prepared your humble abode to take on the below-zero temperatures? Many people do little to prepare for winter, which is one of the biggest mistakes they can make as homeowners. Getting your home winter-ready will keep your house warmer, save you unnecessary stress, and help you save money. Here are isure’s tips on how to get your home winter-ready:
1. Get a Head Start
If you haven’t already performed the tasks we recommended for fall, now is the time to do them! These tasks are better done when the temperature is a bit warmer rather than in the chillier weather.
- Inspecting the chimney
- Cutting tree limbs
- Cleaning gutters
- Inspecting the roof
- Replacing weather-stripping
- Draining garden hoses
2. Protect Your Plumbing
One of the most common home insurance claims during the winter months is from frozen and burst pipes. When the temperature drops, even indoor pipes can be susceptible to freezing, which can lead to massive problems. If some of your pipes look susceptible, prepare them by insulating them as much as possible. Afterwards, be sure to check up on them often to make sure no issues have occurred. It is also super helpful to show everyone in the family how to turn off the water source if a problem ever arises. This is a crucial step to get your home winter-ready!
3. Get Your Furnace Inspected
The beginning of winter is the best time to get your furnace checked. When the weather is below freezing, you don’t want to be left without a furnace warming your home. Additionally, many furnace repair companies will likely have longer wait times during the dead of winter. Be sure to make an appointment soon so that you can stay toasty during the colder season!
4. Swap Out Your Fall Clothes
Instead of waiting for the first snowfall to unpack those hats and mittens, do it today! Unpacking your winter wardrobe earlier is always better, so you can prepare for whatever winter throws your way. It’s always frustrating having to unpack your winter jacket from storage when an unexpected snowfall arrives.
5. Blankets, Blankets, Blankets!
Instead of waiting for a cold night to try and find a warmer blanket, bring them out today. Consider a down comforter or placing some wool blankets at the foot of the bed. In either case, you may not even require one, particularly if you have excellent insulation. However, it’s always good to be prepared, especially if you find yourself guilty of skipping our third step! For those who use electric blankets. Consider running it for about 10 minutes before bed. This way, you’ll fall asleep faster, and it’s safer than running it while sleeping.
6. Insulate Your Windows
Some people may be shocked to learn just how much heat escapes from their windows. Cut down on your heating costs by giving your windows some extra insulation. A common way to do this is by investing in a heat-seal plastic kit for your windows. If you want to take a more DIY approach, consider using plastic film or bubble wrap, which provide even more effective insulation. While the latter may impair your ability to look out at the snow, the small air pockets will do more to insulate your home.
7. Invest in Some New Winter Gear
Was it last year when you told yourself you needed a new shovel? Do yourself a favour and purchase one now, especially with all of the Black Friday deals going on. It is the perfect time to stock up on winter gear before it’s gone, when the cold weather is here to stay.
From ice-melting salt and ice breakers to car window scrapers, these are all great things to have handy. If the area you live in is more rural, consider checking in on the status of your snow blower. Make sure it is in working order before heavy snowfall arrives. If you live in the city, get the information for a snow-clearing company in your area. You can also download apps that provide you with on-demand services, such as Jiffy.
8. Clear Your Deck
When winter comes, you probably won’t be sitting on your deck all that often. Due to this, it’s essential to ensure your patio furniture and any objects on your deck are protected. Snow and the cold can cause a lot of wear and tear on your patio furniture, so safeguarding them ensures they are in good condition to use again when the warm weather returns. When winterizing your home, make sure you store all furniture and planters inside or secure them and cover them with a tarp.
9. Clean Your Fireplace
Having a working fireplace is the perfect way to cozy up during the cold weather. However, it is crucial to make sure your fireplace is in a safe condition before you use it. Chances are, your fireplace has been out of commission during the warmer months so that it may need some cleaning. It is essential to make sure there is no debris buildup and no animals are nesting in it. This will reduce the chance of chimney fires! If you don’t feel confident in doing this on your own, you can call yourself a professional chimney sweep.
10. Inspect and Repair Your Roof
Making sure your roof is in good condition is another key step in winterizing your home. It is essential to make sure you hire a professional to look over it and handle any necessary repairs. During the winter, excessive snow can be a hazard to your roof. If you find you’re going to be away during the winter and not turning on your heat, consider having heating cables installed on your roof. This will ensure snow melts off the edge of the roof, preventing damage from ice dams that can form.
Though these tasks may seem small, the process to get your home winter-ready will save you stress, time, and money in the long run! Paired with better home insurance from isure, you can rest easy knowing you and your home are covered when the unexpected happens. Many people found themselves overpaying before their switch to isure, so get a quote from us today!
Safeguard Your Home
Get a free home insurance quote today and protect what matters most.
There is nothing quite as quintessentially winter as your home Read more
Winter is on the horizon, and with that comes rapid Read more
Our ultimate winter safety kit will assist you in riding Read more
