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Preparing for Winter

Posted October 14th, 2012 under renovations and repairs.

These recent cold days are a hint: winter's coming! Use this checklist to prepare your home:

Check the caulking on the outside of all windows and doors. If cracks have appeared or the caulking has pulled away from the side, clean out the old loose caulking and re-caulk.

Check the rubber seal on your outside doorsill. Replace it if it's cracked, otherwise snow and water will get in, freeze, and do more damage.

Check your eaves troughs to make sure they're securely attached before the first snowfall, and clean out any leaves.

Do your furnace check up before you start it up! Change your filter and check your humidifier. Verify that the pilot light is on (if applicable), check the condition of the fan belt, and oil the motor (if appropriate).

Don't forget to shut off your air conditioner.

Check your driveway for large cracks. If you see any, fill them before the winter does additional damage.

Turn off your outside water taps before the frost.

If you have a fireplace, check the chimney for obstructions such as bird nests.

Make sure the ground around each downspout is graded away from the house for at least 5 feet.

Now get the snow shovel and the hot chocolate ready, you'll need them soon!

Want to know more about winter-proofing your home? Just ask me, I'll be happy to help.