Winter is right around the corner, and we often forget or ignore important tasks around the house. Cleaning the house isn’t enough to prepare your home for the winter, and if you want to stay cozy inside, you have to roll up your sleeves and do some work. Preparing your home for the colder days will only help you protect it from the weather and even improve the efficiency of the entire space. So, while the snow still hasn’t started falling, let’s see how you can perform some maintenance.
Check the Furnace
Before you are obliged to turn up the heat, it is a great idea to check the furnace beforehand. If you’ve neglected it for some time you might find your furnace has some issues getting itself started. There is always some basic maintenance to do to help the heating system run smoothly, especially because it has been sitting idle for a good part of the year. So, check the filter and change it if it looks dirty. Also, make sure to clean the furnace, your fireplace, or any other system you may have. If these fixes aren’t proving helpful, it might be time to ask yourself do you need a new furnace in Illinois? (or elsewhere more relevant for you!).
Inspect the Roof
Since heavy rain and snow are expected each year, you want to make sure they don’t ruin your home. So, go up there and have your roof inspected. This will help you notice any signs of damage in time before everything starts leaking. The weather may cause damaged or missing shingles, and you want to get on top of that as soon as possible.
While you are up there, you may even consider adding more protection. If you don’t already have it, you can look into attic reflective insulation to add an extra layer of coziness and protection to your home. This can preserve heat inside the home and protect your home if damages do occur.
Don’t Forget About the Chimney
Since you are already up there, you should inspect your chimney. Everyone loves warm fire during cold winter months, but a dirty chimney could cause some serious problems. Get a professional chimney sweep to clean and inspect the fireplace and the chimney so you can avoid any fire incidents or smoke getting back to your living room. This can be caused by blockages, and you want to avoid that by inspecting the gas line, too, and doing some thorough cleaning.
Check the Windows and Doors
Windows and doors can easily develop gaps due to harsh weather, and this can lead to drafts. Drafts will suck out all the heat from your home, leaving it cold and your heating system less efficient. So, make sure to check all the windows and doors, especially the exterior ones, for any gaps. If you do notice a gap, you can use caulk around the window trim to seal off drafts. Also, you can install weatherstripping on the edges of doors and windows to create a seal. This will help preserve heat inside while you are also protecting your home from leakages during rain and snow.
Clean the Gutters
Rain, leaves, snow, and other conditions can clog the gutters of your house. As a result, your home could suffer water damage or loose gutters and ice dams which can lead to serious damage. Make sure you clean the gutters and downspouts on your home, or get a professional to do. Clean out all the dead leaves, sticks, and other debris to clear a path for water to fall down smoothly. You should check the gutters and clean them twice a year, and fall makes the perfect time to make sure everything is in order.
Store Outdoor Furniture
The summer is gone, and your outdoor furniture has no use anymore. However, you shouldn’t just leave it there to get damaged by the weather. Wicker, plastic, wood, and resin furniture should never be exposed to the elements if you want it to last. So, make sure to get it all into the garage, shed, or any other storage space you have for it. Also, make sure to clean everything before storing, and you can even cover everything with cotton sheets.
Our homes require a lot of attention. However, if we do give them that attention and take good care of them, they will last longer. What’s more, they will be cozier and safer throughout the year. Winters can be harsh, and you certainly want your home to be inviting and cozy, so make sure to clean it and do some basic maintenance to prepare for the colder months.
