Prepare for Winter Water & Fire Damage
Another winter season is right around the corner; cool nights sipping hot cocoa and snuggled up by the fire. These winter activities bring a feeling of warmth and joy with nights spent with family. However, as winter approaches so too do potential disasters caused by home heating malfunctions, roof leaks, and frozen pipes. The past few New England winters have been significantly mild but they are predicting that to change this year. Are you and your home prepared for what this winter may bring?
Will quick winter weather changes make conditions perfect for those nasty ice dams that can wreak havoc on attics and roofing? Or will a long cold period create continuous cold conditions that lead to pipes freezing and bursting? And how about the homeowners who haven’t had their heating systems cleaned recently and may experience the nasty soot cloud that is a puff back when they turn on their heat?
We have compiled this list of Top 10 Tips to help you winterize your home:
1. Have Your Heating System Inspected
Your heating system is the heart of your home during winter. Schedule an annual inspection with an HVAC professional to ensure everything is working efficiently. Cleaning your furnace and ducts can prevent the buildup of dust and debris, which might cause a puff back —a soot-filled mishap that can leave a mess and damage your home. A professional inspection can also identify small issues before they turn into costly repairs during the coldest months.
2. Prevent Plumbing Freezes
Frozen pipes can burst and lead to extensive water damage. To avoid this, drain all exterior hoses and shut off outdoor water lines. Wrap exposed pipes with insulation sleeves, especially in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, or attics. Know the location of your main water valve so you can quickly shut it off in an emergency. If you’re leaving for an extended period, set your thermostat to at least 55°F to keep your pipes from freezing.
3. Get Your Fireplace Ready
There’s nothing cozier than a crackling fire, but a neglected fireplace can be a hazard. Schedule a chimney cleaning to remove creosote buildup, which is a leading cause of chimney fires. Check the damper to ensure it opens and closes properly, and confirm that your firewood is dry and stored safely. If you use a gas fireplace, have it inspected to ensure it’s functioning properly and safely.
4. Check the Exterior, Doors, and Windows
Inspect the outside of your home for any cracks or holes that could let in drafts or pests. Seal gaps around doors with weather-stripping and add caulk to window frames where needed. Switch out summer screens for storm windows to improve insulation and energy efficiency. Small maintenance tasks like these can help lower your heating costs and make your home more comfortable.
5. Check Foundations
Your home’s foundation is its first line of defense against the elements. Look for and seal any entry points that rodents or insects might use to get inside—remember, mice can fit through holes as small as a dime! Keep the area around your foundation free of leaves, debris, and overgrown vegetation to prevent moisture buildup that could cause cracks or leaks.
6. Clear Roof, Gutters & Downspouts
Your roof and gutters play a crucial role in keeping water out of your home. Inspect your roof for loose shingles and repair any damage. Clear gutters and downspouts to ensure water drains properly, and make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation. Adding extra attic insulation can help prevent ice dams, which form when warm air escapes and melts snow on your roof, only for it to refreeze at the edges.
7. Install Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter increases the risk of house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning due to the use of heating systems, fireplaces, and space heaters. Make sure you have functioning smoke and carbon monoxide detectors on every level of your home, particularly near sleeping areas. Stock up on extra batteries and test your devices monthly. Having a fire extinguisher on hand is also a smart precaution.
8. Service Weather-Specific Equipment
Winter equipment can be your best friend during a storm. Drain gasoline from lawnmowers to prevent fuel from going bad during storage, and tune up snow blowers to ensure they’re ready when the first snow falls. Check your stock of winter supplies—shovels, ice scrapers, rock salt, and sand—and replenish as needed so you’re not caught unprepared.
9. Prepare Landscaping
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your yard. Trim tree branches that hang close to your home or power lines to reduce the risk of damage during a storm. Move fragile plants indoors or cover them with burlap to protect them from frost. Cleaning up your landscaping in the fall can prevent headaches come springtime.
10. Prepare an Emergency Kit
Winter storms can sometimes cause power outages or make roads impassable. Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like candles, matches, blankets, flashlights, and batteries. Stock several days’ worth of non-perishable food and bottled water. Don’t forget to include emergency contact numbers for utilities, insurance, and local service providers like ServiceMaster Dynamic Cleaning, so you’re ready to respond if disaster strikes.
Preparing your home for winter isn’t just about staying cozy and warm—it’s about safeguarding your property and your family against potential hazards. By following these winterization tips, you can significantly reduce the risks of water and fire damage, ensuring a safe and stress-free season.
Don’t wait until disaster strikes to act. Take proactive steps now to inspect, maintain, and prepare your home for the colder months ahead. And remember, if you do experience an unexpected emergency like a burst pipe, ice dam, or heating system puff back, our team at ServiceMaster Dynamic Cleaning is here to help. We specialize in restoration services and are just a call away to get your home back to normal quickly and efficiently.
Stay safe and enjoy the magic of winter with peace of mind!
