Life in the winter is different from all other seasons. But before talking about wearing hoodies, what steps are you taking to care of your home?
You see, harsh weather affects your property as it affects you, albeit in different ways. And just as you switch to thicker clothing, there are things you must do to maintain your home’s health in winter, which ultimately leads to your comfort.
Here are tips to ensure your home is safe and comfortable all winter.
1. Remove ice dams regularly
You may be a busy person, but clearing ice dams from your roof is one of the most important things to do in winter.
Snow and ice cause roof damage due to freeze and thaw as the temperature fluctuates during winter. An ice dam may form across the roof edge when it snows, preventing melting snow from draining off the roof. The ice melts on your roof soaks up the shingles, and water gets into tiny holes. When the temperature dips again, the water freezes in the holes and expands, allowing more water during the next thaw.
If you’ve noticed leaks during winter, it’s probably due to snow and ice roof damage, and it’s vital to call a roofing expert to prevent further damage. They may help you clear the ice dams and repair the leaks, but you have to play your part by preventing them in the future.
2. Check your home’s heating
A heating system can last for 10 or 20 years, but it all depends on the maintenance. Before the weather gets harsh, it’s advisable to have your system inspected by an HVAC professional.
It will help to change the filters in your furnace before the winter comes and keep tabs on its efficiency. You want to ensure your heating will work when you most need it. It wouldn’t be nice to find your furnace not working on a frigid winter night.
3. Add more insulation
The winter cold can do a number on your home, so you want to shield it some more. By adding more insulation to your home, you’d prevent ice dams from forming while making the house warmer. Aim for at least 8 inches of insulation to your attic.
Also, insulate any exposed pipe to prevent bursting due to freezing and thawing.
Insulate your walls to prevent moisture from accumulating on them, which may lead to mould growth.
Insulation isn’t cheap, but it can save you a whole lot of money (such as roof and plumbing repair costs) when the winter is over.
4. Get rid of branches hanging over your property
If you have trees beside your home, trim their overhanging branches. The weight of snow can cause branches to snap, fall and probably damage your roof.
Remove dead limbs, especially as these are more likely to snap.
5. Remove snow from your premises
This may seem like a burden, but it will save you a whole lot. If allowed to linger for long, snow can make it dangerous to walk around your property. Passersby may get injured, and the blame might be on you.
Shovel your walkway and sidewalk, and sprinkle salt to prevent ice from forming.
Finally…
One way to care for your home in winter is to install weather strips around your windows and doors. This will prevent heat from escaping, saving you money on heating.
*Don’t forget to download my #FREE Lifestyle APP Live a Well-Designed Life
