Winter weather announces its arrival with shorter days and crisp evening air. It’s a new season after a long, hot summer with falling leaves, chilly air, and layered clothes. The first thing we do when the weather gets cold is take out the jumpers and cardigans for ourselves, as well as warm and cozy decor for our homes. On the other hand, there are some tedious yet essential tasks you should prioritize, such as cleaning, repairing, and maintaining the equipment.
In the wake of the summer slumber, you must recognize the damage your house has sustained. For the harsh winter months ahead, it must be safeguarded and prepared. Instead of waiting until the last minute, make sure you are prepared in advance. Here are some things you can do now to prepare your home for winter.
- Reverse the Summer Damage
The heat, rain, and other weather extremes of summer really take a toll on your house. From damaged roof shingles to cracked driveways and walkways, you might need to address multiple issues throughout your home. You want to do a quick yet thorough inspection of the following:
- The first inspection should be for any damage to the roof due to rain, hail, or heat. You want to fix any damaged or missing shingles immediately.
- The lawn of your house must be dry and hard after the summer heat. Aeration treatment can allow moisture to seep in through the soil.
- Similarly, the deck might have lost its color and shine due to UV rays and harsh weather conditions. You want to make sure it is painted and stained for a proper fall-worthy look.
- Seal or fill any cracks in the cement or wood in the house immediately. In the colder months, if the water freezes, it can expand these cracks and even lead to structural damage and foundation repair.
- Check the walkways, driveways, and steps for any damage, as it could be a safety hazard. You should fix them to avoid accidents on icy days.
- Set up the Outdoors
Just because the summer is over doesn’t mean your outdoor life has to end. With a few tweaks, you can enjoy the outdoors fully, even during the winter weather.
- Long summer days and bright evenings do not require much lighting. But with winter, the dark seeps in sooner. There should be enough lighting for evening hangouts. You can set up string lights around the garden, trees, or walls to give ample light and ambiance for outdoor settings.
- You can get screen doors and enclosures for outdoor spaces like decks, patios, and gardens so you can sunbathe in the afternoon and enjoy the evening safely and privately.
- You can set up patio furniture with materials that can withstand the weather conditions in your area. Such durable and natural materials can last for years and benefit your health and the surroundings.
- Having fire pits will also allow you to enjoy cozy evenings outdoors with your friends and family.
- A properly managed landscape can also provide a calm and fresh environment for your family to enjoy, even during the grey autumn days.
- Test Winter Appliances
With the dip in temperature, the use of home appliances usually goes up during winter. From water heaters to radiators, all appliances should be evaluated and repaired before turning them back on.
- Get an annual service for the professionals to inspect the boilers, radiators, and thermostats in your house. They will check if the appliances are in good working condition before starting to prevent damage.
- You should set up smoke detectors on every floor, including the basement, for safety. Make sure the detectors have new batteries.
- Check the filters in appliances like dryers and other vents. Remove lint and other debris that could affect the functioning of the appliance and may even cause fire hazards.
- Prepare the winter essentials, like snow blowers. Keep them where they are easily available and ready to be used.
- Roof Repair
Roof is the defender of the house that takes a beating from all weather conditions. Rain, hail, UV rays, and snow really scrap the roof and its components. You want to take care of the following features for a winter-ready roof:
- Leave no dirt or debris in the gutters. Usually with the onset of fall, leaves will cause the gutters to block. You want water and snow to flow away from the house properly. Make sure to routinely inspect and clean the gutters to avoid indoor and outdoor water damage.
- Repair the shingles that might be damaged or missing due to the rain and storms.
- Repair the insulating materials if they have been damaged.
- Keep the attic clean and check for any holes and cracks. Repair those as well to maintain proper air circulation and temperature around the house.
- Add and Repair Insulation
Insulation is very important to maintain temperature and lower energy bills during colder months. A properly insulated home reduces energy consumption by heating and cooling appliances and is also eco-friendly. There are different parts of a home that you can insulate for comfortable living in the winter months.
- You can start from the roof. A properly insulated attic safeguards from the cold and snow. It also helps to prevent air pollution and mold growth.
- You can use thick curtains and blinds for windows as cheaper alternatives to insulation.
- You can use insulating materials to prevent air leaks through draft doors and windows.
- The most essential is the basement. A properly waterproofed basement saves the house from structural damage while ensuring fresh air circulation and temperature maintenance. In case of any issues, you want to contact professionals for foundation repair so you do not have to worry about any damage from rain and snow during the colder months.
- Update Security
Security is of the utmost importance all year around, especially during the fall when crime rates increase with the darkness. You want to ensure that all parts of the house are properly secured so you can enjoy the fall without a care in the world.
- Make sure that the wall or fence is properly secured with no cracks or holes.
- Make sure the gates are securely locked. Update the locks and padlocks in your home.
- Make sure the windows are properly locked during the autumn months.
- Improve the lighting in the surrounding outdoor areas and the front door to prevent burglars from creeping in the dark.
- Set up or update your security cameras and alarms. They will help you sleep peacefully at night and keep your home and family safe.
Conclusion
With the cooler weather comes comfortable and fun celebrations at home. Fall means spending more time indoors with your family, so you should prepare your home accordingly for hassle-free and warm days. You need to focus on essentials like security, insulation, damage repair, and updating the appliances to ensure a carefree and effective life for the winter. Get all the essentials ready and adorn your home with Fall decor for a season worth remembering.
