Time is running out to prepare your home for winter

The holiday season is fast approaching and with it brings a climatic change that affects property owners across the country. If you have procrastinated in preparing your home for winter, you need to take action now to avoid potential problems in the future. We outline some common areas in your property for visual inspection, as well as routine maintenance every homeowner should consider.

The first step in working to winterize your home is to have your properties furnace inspected if you have any concerns whether it is working properly. Smoke “puff backs’ from oil furnaces are one of the largest contributors to property fires. These tend to occur in furnaces that are not properly maintained and have excess or dirty oil that can create a hidden danger in your property. Another area to address are properties with wood burning stove or fireplace, it is a good idea to have this inspected and cleaned a minimum of every two years. If your home is heated with a boiler or hot water heating system, you may consider having this cleaned out with an air compressor to help restore efficient circulation and efficiency.

The heating system is only one of the items that should be reviewed prior to winter. If you have fallen leaves on your property it is a good idea to have your roof, gutters and downspouts thoroughly cleaned as well. Removing unwanted debris from gutters can help you avoid ice damns that occur, which have the potential to lead to significant roof damage. Your roof is a key line of defense in protecting your homes interior during the winter months. If you have missing shingles or soft spots, these could become problematic areas that lead to larger issues if not addressed prior to future snowfall.

There are other areas within your home that should be inspected as well. One of the most overlooked areas in your home is your plumbing. In many homes, the plumbing system is out of site; therefore it tends to become an issue only when it reaches an emergency (broken) state. Inspecting your plumbing for small water leaks, rusting, discoloration is very important prior to winter. If you plan to leave your home vacant during the winter to spend the colder months in a warmer climate, consider having your home winterized by a professional to avoid broken pipes or emergencies that could lead to extensive property damage if left unattended.

The last item to review should be your homes insulation. Annually checking your insulation to ensure it is properly fastened and does not contain moisture is very important. Your homes insulation and energy efficiency is not solely tied into your roof insulation; you should examine all of your windows and doors to verify they are properly sealed from the inside and out. The best way to have a safe and energy efficient winter is to plan ahead with some preventative maintenance and visual inspection.