Preparing your Northwest home for winter can be a daunting task, but with the right procedures in place, it can be relatively pain-free. As the holidays approach and the temperatures get colder and colder, it is important to make sure your home is ready to weather the cold temperatures ahead.
The winter months in the Northwest can be harsh and unforgiving, leading to extreme amounts of precipitation and gusts of cold winds that can leave your home vulnerable to damage. Fortunately, there are many simple steps that you can take to ensure that your home is winter-proof.
Winterizing your home will not only protect it from the elements, but it will also save you money on your energy bill. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that your home is prepared thoroughly for the winter months.
Weatherize Windows and Doors
One of the most important things you can do to prepare your home for the cold weather is to weatherize your windows and doors. Weatherizing your doors and windows involves sealing any leaks or gaps to reduce the amount of heat that is lost from your home. This simple process can drastically reduce your energy costs as drafts are naturally one of the biggest sources of heat loss in your home.
Making sure that your windows and doors are properly weatherized is not only important for blocking drafts, but it can also improve the quality of your indoor air. By sealing these gaps, you can reduce the amount of pollutants and contaminants that enter your home from the outside. Additionally, if you take the time to check and repair your windows and doors, you can prevent water damage that can be caused by water infiltration.
Clean the Gutters and Downspouts
The gutters and downspouts of a home are important for directing runoff water away from the foundation of the house. Over time, gutters and downspouts can become clogged with leaves, debris, and dirt, leading to blocked water flow and water infiltration. Cleaning out these components on a regular basis can be a great way to ensure that your home is protected during the winter months.
Cleaning out your gutters and downspouts should be done at least once a year. Make sure to wear protective gear such as gloves and goggles when performing this task, as gutters can be full of sharp objects and hazardous debris. Having a cleaning agency come in for this purpose is a great way to reduce the risk of injury that can be caused from the task.
Once the gutters and downspouts are cleared, you can also take the time to ensure that they are properly secured to the side of the house. You can use metal straps to make sure that they won’t shift or be dislodged when the winter weather hits.
Winterize Sprinklers and Outdoor Faucets
Another important step to preparing your home for winter is to winterize any garden sprinkler systems and outdoor faucets. Garden sprinkler systems should be turned off and drained of any remaining water that may freeze and expand as the temperatures drop below 32°F. This will ensure that no pipes burst or are damaged from the freezing temperatures.
Outdoor faucets should also be winterized by closing the valve and disconnecting any hose pipes that are connected to them. If you have any nearby pools or tanks, make sure to drain these as well and ensure that they are covered with a tarp to prevent water from collecting and freezing.
- Repair any roof damage
- Inspect insulation and airtight seals
- Check fire extinguishers
- Service the furnace
- Inspect pipes for leaks or weak spots
Conclusion
Preparing the Northwest home for winter is a critical task that should be done each year. Ensuring that your windows and doors are weatherized, that your gutters and downspouts are clean, and that you winterize your garden sprinkler systems and outdoor faucets are all important processes for making sure that your home is ready for the cold months.