As another winter is (hopefully) starting to end, it’s time to start thinking about what next year could bring. From blizzards to freezing rain, there are a number of potential disasters that could strike, so it’s important to be as prepared as possible. Here are a few tips on how you can winter-proof your home and keep your family safe all season long.
Get your furnace checked and serviced before the cold weather hits
Nothing is worse than being caught off guard by the cold weather, especially when temperatures suddenly drop to freezing. To avoid any last-minute stress and potential costly repairs, make sure to get your furnace checked and serviced before the end of autumn. As a special bonus, you can use this inspection as a chance to learn more about your heating system and understand how it works. Your preparedness will reward you later – when you’re comfortably indoors and not having to worry about the temperature outside!
Insulate your windows and doors to keep heat in and cold out
Winterizing your home is essential when days start to get colder in order to maintain indoor comfort and keep energy costs low. When it comes to protecting your home from the winter chill, don’t forget about insulating windows and doors! Adding a layer of insulation can help prevent heat loss through these points of entry, making your heating system more efficient and keeping any winter chill out. Fortunately, there are a variety of ways you can go about this – foam strips, panels, or draft snakes – all of which have their own unique benefits and installation methods. So make sure you take a moment to consider your options before taking these crucial steps in preparing for some wintery weather!
Stock up on non-perishable food items in case you lose power
Winter can be particularly harsh, with frigid temperatures and the potential for power outages. To ensure that you and your family remain comfortable regardless of what winter throws at you, having a well-stocked pantry of non-perishable foods is a must. Canned fruits, vegetables, and soups are easy to store and provide necessary nutrition during extended power losses. Have plenty of snacks like chips, pretzels, popcorn, or crackers to keep energy levels up on those cold days indoors. Planning ahead will give you peace of mind in the case of an emergency and allow you to deal with whatever difficulties you’ll face in the cold.
Make sure your roof is in good repair to deal with potential snowfall
Winter weather can come with heavy snowfall, so now is the perfect time to check your roof and make sure it’s in good repair. With temperatures dipping below zero at times, a good roof will be the first line of defense for protecting your home from additional damage caused by snow and ice buildup. Taking a few simple steps to prepare your roof now can save you significant expenses later when the stormy winter winds blow. Make sure there are no signs of rot or deterioration, add extra insulation if needed, and take care to properly seal around any vents or chimneys that lead into the attic space. If feel like you need help with anything, reach out to a local roofing expert, such as Biondo Contracting for an inspection and price quote. These small changes can make all the difference in keeping you and your family warm and safe during cold winter months.
Keep a supply of warm blankets and clothing on hand
Winter can be a challenging season for the home, and preparing for extreme cold weather should be taken seriously. Providing adequate warmth for your home is one of the most important steps to ensure a comfortable environment, and keeping a steady supply of warm blankets and clothing on hand is an easy way to go about it. Blankets are great for everyone in the family, from toddlers tucked into bed to people who may not have access to other heating sources; they keep us all warm when we need it most. Knowing that you’re well-stocked with enough warm supplies will help make this winter an easier one.
Have a plan for keeping your pipes from freezing
Staying prepared during extreme winter weather is key. One preparation step to take is establishing a plan for keeping pipes from freezing. Make sure to take the necessary precautions by doing things such as ensuring that your pipes are surrounded by insulation, leaving cupboard doors open so warm air can circulate through, and letting your faucets drip slowly throughout the night to maintain a constant water flow. Other strategies such as keeping your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees Fahrenheit or investing in thermostatically-controlled heat tapes for outdoor pipes can also help make sure your home has protection against low temperatures. Take these steps now and you’ll be ready for whatever winter throws your way!
By following these tips, you can be better prepared for extreme winter weather and avoid some of the most common problems associated with it. If you have any concerns about your home’s ability to withstand the cold, don’t hesitate to contact a professional. They can help assess any potential risks and recommend additional measures you can take to keep your family safe and warm all winter long.