To keep your home in tip-top shape during the winter, there are a few key things you can do to prevent weather-related damage. Here are ten winter maintenance tasks for both the interior and exterior of your home. By staying on top of these little details, you’ll save yourself from expensive repairs come springtime.
Check your fireplace
Sweep your chimney clean before lighting any fires this winter to prevent a dangerous and destructive house fire.
Clean your gutters
When gutters become clogged, it results in exterior and interior wall damage as well as foundation damage to your home.
Prepare your winter storm kit
Before a big storm hits, be sure to have everything you’ll need on hand. This includes shovels, ice scrapers, and pet-friendly ice melt. Also, make sure your flashlights have fresh batteries and that you have gas for the generator.
Clear your roof
Cleaing the snow from your roof after a storm is crucial in preventing ice dams. A roof rake will make this process much easier for you and should be done as soon as possible.
Clear ice dams
If you can, remove the ice from your roof and gutters carefully. Of course, if you have heat cables installed, turn them on.
Clean out your entryway
Keep your floors tidy by making room for coats, hats and gloves in your mudroom or entryway. , use a boot tray so you won’t have to worry about damaging your flooring..
Use storm windows
Upgrading your current windows and doors to storm windows and doors will not only improve your home’s insulation, but will also lower your heating costs.
Prevent frozen pipes
Disconnect hoses from outside faucets. Make sure that any pipes near exterior openings (windows or doors) are insulated. Insulate pipes — at least those by windows and doors, and in unheated areas of the home. If you will be away, be sure to keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit.
Prevent draughts
By caulking your windows and attaching door sweeps, you will be able to keep cool air out of your home which will help lower your heating bill. Make sure to also check the weatherstripping on both windows and doors.
Check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Don’t let this season be the one where you wished you had taken better precautions. Check your carbon monoxide detectors now, so they’ll work if an emergency arises.
DaVinci Construction is your go-to contractor for all of your roofing needs. Whether you need an inspection, repairs, or installations, we are your solution. Contact us to find out more about the different services we offer!