Winter’s Coming

You have no doubt noticed the weather is getting colder. What does this mean for your home? It means preparation! Daylight Savings Time is a great time to get that prep in gear.

Freezing temps are the most pressing winter issue and can create a host of issues around, and to, your home. Let’s address as many as we can!

• If you have water pipes exposed to outside air, be sure and leave your faucets on just enough to allow a steady stream of water flow to prevent freezing, and bursting, pipes. This is by far the most prevalent source of winter home damage.

• Gutters filled with debris can block up water that, when frozen, can cause them to warp and crack as well as impact the roof and cause leaks. Have them cleaned out professionally or do it yourself as safely as you can 

• Caulk any openings that have developed around doorways or windows, this will keep drafts down as well as keep that all important electric bill as low as possible.

•Have your furnace and chimney serviced at least once a year, and there is no better time than when they are about to be put to use.

• It’s always a good time to test your smoke detector(s), so use this opportunity to check or change out the batteries.

• Ice can wreak havoc on trees, which can cause roof or powerline damage. Try to spot potential weak areas and have them trimmed professionally.

• It’s time to put those garden hoses away! Drain them and put them away so they are ready to go in spring.

Now that you’ve taken care of those winter prep chores it’s time to relax and begin to enjoy the GOOD parts of the season, the holidays!