Getting Your Home Ready for Winter
Preparing your home for winter is a time-consuming task, but most of what needs to be done doesn’t cost a lot of money. You can do some of the tasks on your own, but it’s crucial to identify what should be done by a professional so things aren’t made worse. Here are some winter safety tips for your home.
Heating System Maintenance
Before the temperatures drop, confirm that your heating system is performing well. Whether you have a heat pump, boiler, or furnace, test the efficiency of your heating system. If you notice any problems, call a professional to come and do a thorough inspection. Install new filters, as this will contribute to warmth and comfort all winter long. Your heating system is one of the most important systems in your home, so proactively maintain it.
Preventing Ice Dams
Ice dams block water from draining from the roof, resulting in it backing up and causing significant water damage. Ice dams occur where there is inadequate or uneven insulation on your roof.
To prevent ice dams, have a professional inspect the insulation below your roof. If you get this winter safety inspection ahead of time, the problem will be identified and dealt with before winter strikes. Another way to prevent ice dams is to install roof heating cables.
Winterize Your Pipes for Winter Safety
It’s crucial that your pipes stay warm enough during the winter. Insulate exposed plumbing pipes. Professionals usually use foam, heating cables, or pipe sleeves to protect pipes from freezing. If left bare, cold air will cause water to freeze and burst pipes. Winterize all your outdoor faucets as well, to prevent damage to your home.
Roof Winter Safety Inspection
Order a roof inspection before the first snowfall of the season. The inspector will assess your roof and check if there are damaged, loose, or missing shingles. Areas with missing shingles will leak when the snow melts or when there are severe snowstorms. The inspector should also check the chimney and vent stacks.
Apart from fixing the roof, clear your roof after a snowfall. Remove pine needles, leaves, and other debris from gutters. These hold moisture and will lead to blockages if left to accumulate.
As winter approaches, double-check your homeowner’s insurance coverage regarding things like water damage, roof repairs, and other risks associated with inclement weather.
You don’t have to wait for winter to start making winter safety preparations. Instead, you should start making preparations ahead of time.
Digs Doctor Home Inspections provides home inspection services to Charlotte and the surrounding areas of North and South Carolina. Contact us to request an appointment.