During winter, we often put home maintenance out of our minds. However, several important projects help your home fare better in cold weather. These 4 winter home maintenance tasks can make your home safer, more energy-efficient, and more durable.
Winter Home Maintenance to Increase Safety
In the winter, there is a higher risk of fires and carbon monoxide problems. You may be using gas or wood for heat and lighting candles more often. All of that increased risk makes it important to have your smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors ready for winter.
Replace the batteries and test each device according to its instructions. Make sure you have enough detectors for the entire home and, if you’re investing in new ones, install a linked system that activates all detectors when one senses a hazard.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters are an essential system for managing precipitation. Winter snow and ice will put them to the test. If your gutters overflow, you could end up with icy patches on your sidewalks and in your yard. Keep an eye on your gutters during winter. If you see water leaking out of them as snow and ice melts, it means they need to be repaired.
Keep Pipes From Freezing
Winter home maintenance includes keeping your plumbing pipes from freezing. Frozen pipes are at serious risk of cracking and bursting. Leave faucets on a slow drip on very cold days and open up under-sink cabinets to let the indoor heat warm them up. If you haven’t already wrapped exposed pipes in insulating foam, do it now.
Winter Home Maintenance: Prepare for Snow
During a snowstorm, it is important that you and your visitors can safely get into the house. Before it snows, spread ice melt or salt on your driveway, sidewalks, and steps. Check handrails, steps, and walkways for hazards. Put mats inside the door so that everyone can dry their shoes right away. This will keep your floor from becoming wet and slick.
Winter weather can be unpredictable. These tips will have you ready for whatever the season has in store.
Guardian Home Inspection Services offers home inspection to Southwest Michigan. Contact us to request our services.