How to Prepare Your House for Winter: A Handyman’s Guide to a Cozy, Safe Home
As the temperature drops and the days get shorter, it’s time to ensure your home is ready for the cold months ahead. Properly preparing your house for winter not only keeps you warm and comfortable but also prevents costly repairs down the road. Here’s our ultimate guide to getting your house winter-ready.
1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can let warm air escape, making your heating system work overtime. To keep your home energy-efficient and cozy:
Check for drafts by feeling around all the cracks in your windows and doors for any cool air leaking inside.
Seal all gaps with weatherstripping, caulking, or other appropriate seal.
Upgrade to storm windows or install thermal curtains for added insulation.
Adjust door sweeps and thresholds to close gaps at the bottom of doors.
2. Clean and Inspect Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters can lead to overflows, which cause water damage to your roof, walls, and siding. Before the winter rains or snow starts:
Remove leaves and debris from gutters.
Ensure downspouts are clear and direct water away from your foundation.
Install gutter guards to reduce buildup during the winter months.
3. Service Your Heating System
A well-functioning heating system is essential for a warm and safe winter. Here’s what to do:
Schedule a professional inspection for your HVAC system.
Replace air filters to improve efficiency and air quality.
Test your thermostat to ensure it’s working properly.
Reverse the director of your ceiling fans to help recirculate warm air in the room
4. Protect Outdoor Faucets and Pipes
Frozen pipes can burst, causing extensive water damage. To prevent this:
Turn off exterior water valves, disconnect hoses, and drain outdoor faucets.
Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawlspaces, and garages.
Install faucet covers on exterior faucets for extra protection. Any exposed piping on the exterior of your home or in your garage should be insulated.
5. Inspect Your Roof and Chimney
A sturdy roof and clean chimney are essential for winter safety and warmth:
Check for loose or missing shingles and repair them to prevent leaks.
Inspect the flashing around chimneys and vents for gaps.
Schedule a chimney cleaning to remove creosote buildup and ensure proper ventilation.
6. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With increased use of heating systems and fireplaces, the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning rises in winter. Ensure your home is protected by:
Testing smoke and carbon monoxide detectors monthly.
Replacing batteries at least once a year.
Installing additional detectors in key areas if needed.
7. Prepare Your Yard and Outdoor Spaces
Winter weather can wreak havoc on your yard and outdoor structures. Here’s how to protect them:
Trim tree branches near your house to prevent damage from falling limbs.
Store outdoor furniture and equipment in a shed or garage.
Stay Warm and Worry-Free This Winter
Winterizing your home doesn’t have to be a daunting task. With a little preparation and help from Healthy Home Handyman, you can enjoy a warm, safe, and stress-free winter. Contact us today for a free consultation, and let us handle your winter home maintenance needs.
Call us at (817) 988-2769 or visit www.healthyhomehandyman.com to schedule your winterization service.
Stay warm and safe!
