Winter is coming, and with it, cold temperatures, icy sidewalks, and packed snow. While the cold weather brings many seasonal pleasures (snowmen and hot chocolate!), it can also be hard on your home. Stay ahead of the game with these tips for prepping your home for winter:
1. Clean Your Gutters to Prevent Ice Dams
One of the first things you’ll want to do to prepare your home for winter is to clean your gutters. By removing the dirt and debris accumulated in your gutters, you’ll keep your roof’s drainage systems from backing up and causing ice dams, which can damage your roof.
2. Check Your Home for Damages
While you’re on the roof, check for any damages that may lead to leaks in the future. You’ll also want to check the rest of your home for any other damages you might have missed. You want to be proactive and fix any problems before winter when it will be more difficult and costly to make repairs.
3. Check Your Fireplace for Safety Issues and Have It Cleaned
While checking for damages, make sure you also check your fireplace for safety issues, such as soot buildup, and have it cleaned to prevent any potential fire hazards.
4. Winterize Windows and Doors
Winterize your windows and doors before winter. This will help prevent leaks, drafts, and other issues that could occur during the winter and will ensure that you have a warm and cozy home.
5. Check Pipes and Wrap Them in Foam
You’ll also want to make sure you check your pipes and wrap them in foam to prevent freezing. Make sure any exterior hoses are drained, and the exterior faucets have some winterizing material on them.
6. Perform Maintenance on Your Heating and Ventilation Systems and Backup Power Supplies
Finally, you’ll want to perform maintenance on your heating and ventilation systems to ensure they are clean and in good working order. You also want to make sure your backup power supplies are in good condition and ready to go, so you’ll be ready for any emergencies that may arise.
Keep Your Home Safe All Year with Higgins Insurance
These are just a few things you’ll want to do to prepare your home for winter. By taking these steps now, you’ll be able to enjoy the winter months without worrying about your home.
Keep your home safe year-round with Higgins Insurance. Get your quote today!