Mountain West Homeownership: Tips for Winter Preparation
Winter in the Mountain West can be a magical time of year, but for homeowners who may not be experienced in winter preparation tips and tricks, the holidays can be the start to a long, cold, and potentially expensive season. With rising temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy road conditions, it is important to take some simple steps to prepare for winter’s wrath before the first snowflakes hit. Here are a few key tips to help Mountain West homeowners make the most out of a long winter.
Taking care of the exterior of the home is the first step to a winter-ready house. Keeping the area clear of debris, and removing any excess foliage that can trap snow or accumulate around the house can be beneficial, and prevent potential flooding or water damage. While this may seem tedious, it can be made simpler by doing a single task each weekend throughout the fall to spread out the workload. Additionally, properly insulating doors and windows is an essential, and relatively inexpensive way to ensure your home stays comfortable and warm all winter.
No matter how well the home is insulated, the most important step of winter preparation is ensuring that the HVAC system is in working order. This includes checking the furnace and replacing any air filters. Simple maintenance tasks can save energy and reduce the risk of a breakdown during a cold spell and keep the home cozy. Replace any outdated thermostats with modern programmable systems, and check on any baseboard heaters or space heaters to make sure they are cleaned and ready for the season.
Fire Safety: Check Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
It is equally important to make sure fire prevention systems are running correctly. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors should be regularly tested, and any outdated or past-their-prime batteries should be replaced. Additionally, candle holders should be tested and fire extinguishers should be placed in areas of the home that are prone to grease and oil build up. Taking these small steps can prevent a much larger disaster.
Finally, even the most winter-proofed homes have their weak spots. Installing weather stripping, such as foam tape, and making sure all pipes and other parts of the home are insulated properly can be easy to overlook, but can also help save on costly repair in the future. Make sure to take preventative steps to keep pipes from freezing, and remember piping systems in attics or garages may be especially prone.
Snow Removal & Shovels as Essential Winter Gear
Finally, when it comes to living in the Mountain West, snow shovels are essential gear. Make sure to have one close by, so when the snow starts to fall, you can remove it quickly without having to rush out to the store. Additionally, for those who prefer to leave the shoveling to someone else, now is the perfect time to find an inexpensive snow removal service to keep your driveway, sidewalks, and paths free of snow for the winter.
Snow melt or rock salt are also useful for the winter months, and can help keep an icy path from becoming a treacherous slide. Being aware of icy patches not only helps with safety, but it also prevents long-term damage to driveways, decks, and porches over time.
Though the process of winter preparation can seem daunting, remember that the season can also be an enjoyable one. With a little bit of pre-season prep, your home can be in top shape to make this winter the most magical yet.
Preparing for Winter: A Checklist
- Clear debris from around the home, and remove any excess foliage.
- Insulate doors and windows.
- Check HVAC system, and make any necessary repairs.
- Test and Replace Smoke and Carbon Monoxide detectors.
- Install weather stripping and check pipes for any insulation.
- Purchase shovels and stock up on snow melt or rock salt.
Don’t Let Winter Catch You Unprepared
It is never too early to start preparing your home for winter. Taking small steps throughout the fall can help ease the workload and provide big payoffs during the cold days ahead. A winter-ready home doesn’t happen overnight, but with a little bit of preparation and foresight, you can be cozy and comfortable during the chilliest of days.