1. Inspect the roof for any missing or damaged shingles and make repairs as necessary.
It is important to inspect your roof during the winter months, especially if you live in an area that receives harsh snowfall. Look for any cracked, broken or missing shingles, loose flashing or holes in the roofing material. If there is any damage, make sure you have it professionally repaired as soon as possible.
2. Clean out the gutters and check for any clogs that can cause water damage to the home.
Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and potentially damage your home’s foundation or interior walls. Make sure all leaves, debris and other materials are removed from the gutters so that they are free flowing during snowmelt or rain storms.
3. Check all caulking around doors and windows and repair/replace as needed.
The cold winter air can easily seep into your home if there are gaps or cracks in your window or door frames. Inspect all of the caulking around your windows and doors and make sure it’s in good condition. If any of it is cracked, crumbling or missing, have a qualified contractor repair or replace it as soon as possible.
4. Inspect exterior paint for any signs of peeling or chipping and repaint if necessary.
The cold winter weather can cause the paint on your home’s exterior to chip and peel away, so make sure you inspect it regularly for any signs of damage. If the paint appears to be in bad condition, it’s best to hire a professional painter to repaint your entire home.
5. Trim back any overhanging tree branches that could potentially damage the roof or home in a storm.
As windy conditions can bring down large branches or even entire trees, it’s important to prune any large tree branches that overhang your house. Not only will this help protect your home from potential damage in a storm, but it can also minimize the risk of injury from falling branches.
6. Have your heating system serviced by a qualified technician to ensure it is running properly and efficiently.
Make sure you have your heating system checked by a professional before winter sets in. This will help ensure that everything is working as it should be in order to keep your home warm and comfortable throughout the cold months ahead.
7. Inspect the basement, attic, and crawl spaces for any signs of moisture infiltration and take corrective action if necessary.
Moisture buildup in these areas can cause significant damage to your home and could lead to the growth of mold or mildew. If you see any signs of moisture infiltration in these spaces, make sure it is addressed immediately.
8. Install weather-stripping around doors and windows to help keep out the cold air.
Weather-stripping provides an extra layer of insulation for your windows and doors. Investing in a high quality weather stripping will help ensure that warm air stays inside your home while preventing cold air from entering. It’s also important to check all door seals and replace any worn ones with new, durable seals.
9. Make sure you have proper insulation in your attic, walls, basement, etc.
Proper insulation is essential to keeping your home warm during the winter months and will help reduce utility bills as well. Inspect all areas of your home for proper insulation, including any attics, walls, and basements. If you notice that insulation needs to be replaced or added anywhere in the house, make sure you hire a professional contractor to do so.
10. Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed
Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are essential for keeping your family safe in the event of a fire or hazardous gas leak. Make sure you test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home to ensure they are working properly. If needed, replace any batteries that are running low or not working at all.