Winterize your home
As the months get colder, there are a few things that need to be done in the home to winterize it. Here are a few things you should do to winterize your home.
Seal gaps and cracks
Seal any gaps or cracks in your foundation and walls before the winter months get rolling. This prevents cold air and critters from entering your home. If you have larger gaps, use an expanding foam filler. Around your windows and doors, use a white, paintable caulk.
Upgrade doors and windows
To prevent drafts, buy storm doors and windows. Additionally, double and triple pane windows are more energy-efficient.
Inspect wood stoves and fireplace inserts
You should hire a certified chimney sweeper come to clean the chimney and inspect the fireplace each year, if you have a wood-burning fireplace. If you have a fireplace insert, be sure to check the gasket around the door. If this is loose, replace it when the fireplace is cold. Additionally, keep snow from piling on firewood by covering logs with painter’s tarp. Use rope to secure it in place.
Create a hearth-cleaning kit
Create a hearth-cleaning kit to make cleanup more convenient. Make a basket with a whisk broom, a small dust pan, a spray container with glass cleaner, and a few old newspapers. Keep the kit near the fireplace. Make sure to empty the dustpan into the fireplace, as it is safer to place embers into a fireplace than in a wastebasket or vacuuming them.
Insulate your pipes
Insulating your pipes reduces your risk of the pipes freezing during the winter. To check whether you can insulate your pipes, touch the pipes. If they are warm to the touch, they are good candidates for insulation. Find pre-slit pipe foam, cut it to size, and fasten it into place with duct tape.
Winterize your A/C and water lines
Drain any hoses and air conditioner pipes. Make sure there is no water left in the hose. Otherwise, the water can freeze, it can weaken the lining and cause holes to form. If you air conditioner has a water shutoff valve, turn it off.
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