Although winter is fast approaching, it’s not too late to get a jump on home maintenance tasks. There are several key chores to complete before the temperature plummets and the first flakes fly to keep your home warm and comfortable.
Here are some of the most important home projects to do before winter hits.
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Conduct Furnace and Heater Maintenance
Perhaps the most important project on the list is performing furnace and heater maintenance. Ensuring your home’s heating system is running efficiently is a must for keeping your home warm while minimizing seasonal costs.
Consider booking a furnace technician or heat pump repair specialist for an inspection and tune-up. If you have a wood stove and didn’t have your chimney cleaned last year, it’s time to schedule that service as well.
Neglecting regular upkeep can lead to unexpected breakdowns and costly repairs during the coldest months. Scheduling a professional Furnace Tune-Up ensures that your heating system runs efficiently and safely throughout the winter. This simple step can also extend the life of your furnace while keeping energy bills under control.
Clean the Gutters and Roof
Autumn is a beautiful time of year to watch the leaves change color, drift in the wind, and clog your gutters.
If you live in an area with heavy snow or rain during the winter, clearing your gutters is a must. This task will help prevent build-up that could cause a roof collapse or leaks around the fascia.
It’s also the perfect time to inspect the roof for and replace lost shingles. Consider hiring a professional roofer. Many roofing companies offer a package with annual roof maintenance and gutter cleaning services.
Reseal the Windows
Windows are the primary source of heat loss during the winter months. Reseal your windows to minimize the money you spend to send hot air outside.
Add a new layer of caulking in areas where it’s starting to chip away, and consider rope insulation for drafty windows. Adding window film can also help minimize drafts during the winter while still letting the sun shine through.
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Check and Maintain Winter Gear
Take some time to find and prepare all of your winter gear. If you have a snowblower, check to confirm it’s still working, oil the connections, and have it fueled up. Restock any road salt or ice melt stores and put your shovels in an accessible area.
If you have any remaining summer and fall gear out (lawn mowers and rakes, for example), clean them off, oil the moving parts, and prepare them for storage. Cleaning and oiling your tools before storing them will help prevent rust and seizing while in storage.
Check and Address the Attic
The warm air from your heating system will rise, so it’s important to ensure your attic is ready to handle it. Check your attic for signs of leaks or moisture and confirm that you have sufficient insulation. You shouldn’t be able to see the floor joists when looking at eye level from your attic door. If you can, it’s time for more insulation.
If your exhaust fans vent into the attic, you should consider having a specialist address this issue before the winter. These outdated vents direct humidity directly into your attic, increasing the risk of mold growth over the winter.
While home maintenance isn’t a fun task, being proactive will save you discomfort, time, and money during the winter months. Use these home projects to prepare your home for the winter so you can relax and hibernate until the sun reappears.