Lennar exteriors

Winter Home Maintenance 101

As the days grow shorter and the air becomes crisper, it’s time to prepare our homes for the winter season. Winter home maintenance not only keeps you warm and comfortable but also protects your home and prevents costly repairs. In this guide, we’ll explore essential tasks to winterize your home, from insulating windows to protecting pipes and keeping your HVAC system running smoothly. Whether you’re a seasoned homeowner or considering buying a new home, these tips will help you keep your home warm and safe this winter.

Winterize your windows

As it becomes colder, window maintenance is important, especially in areas of the country where it reaches the single digits. Windows are notorious for heat loss, but with a few simple measures, you can improve insulation and energy efficiency. Applying caulk around the window frames can help fill any gaps. Over time, the original seal can degrade, letting in the cold. Caulk creates a barrier preventing heat from escaping and cold air from infiltrating the home.

Weatherstripping is another effective method to insulate your windows. This material seals the gaps around your windows, preventing cold air from entering. You can also consider installing storm windows or covers over your existing windows. These provide an extra layer of insulation, helping to keep the heat in and the cold out.

Another option to improve insulation is upgrading from single-pane to double-pane windows. Although it’s a bit more of an investment, the long-term energy savings and improved comfort can be significant since double-pane windows, standard in new homes, offer superior insulation.

Protect your pipes

The winter season can be hard on your home’s plumbing, but there are a few things you can do to help prevent costly repairs. Even if you live somewhere with mild winters, you should get out and prepare in case of a cold snap. One of the most important steps is to insulate your pipes to help keep them from freezing. Using heat tape or insulation materials can help protect your pipes from the cold and keep them working all winter long. This is especially important for pipes in unheated areas of your home, like basements, attics and garages. Seal any gaps near pipes and leave cabinet doors open, especially those housing pipes beneath sinks.

When leaving the home empty for an extended time, you need to take extra precautions. Shutting off the water supply and draining the pipes is recommended to prevent potential bursts and water damage. This helps ensure no water is left in the pipes to freeze and expand, which could lead to cracks or breaks. Setting the thermostat to a consistent temperature above freezing can provide an extra layer of protection while you’re away.

Maintain your roof

The winter months are a critical time to maintain your roof, helping your home stay safe, warm and structurally sound. The harsh weather conditions, including snow, ice and strong winds, can take a toll on your roof, leading to potential leaks, cracks and other issues.

The initial step in protecting your roof is to keep it clear of debris and snow. The accumulation of heavy snow can stress the structure, leading to damage. Regular snow removal with a roof rake can help alleviate this pressure.

Equally important is the inspection of flashing around chimneys, skylights and other roof structures. Damaged or worn flashing can compromise the watertight seal it provides, so timely repairs are essential to guard against water infiltration.

Keep your gutters clean

As winter approaches, it’s important to make sure your gutters are in good shape. They play a key role in protecting your home from water damage by directing rainwater and snowmelt away from your foundation, walls and roof.

Routine removal of leaves and debris is a fundamental part of gutter upkeep. As these materials build up over time, they can lead to blockages, impeding water flow. This can result in water overflow, causing issues such as ice dams, which in turn can lead to water damage and roof leaks.

In addition to clearing debris, look for any notable damage. Preventing and repairing holes, cracks and sagging areas is essential to maintaining your gutters.

Downspouts also need some attention. They play a vital role in directing water away from your home’s foundation. If they become clogged, water can build up in the gutters, leading to overflow and potential damage.

Don’t forget your HVAC system

The importance of a well-maintained heating, ventilation and air conditioning (HVAC) system is crucial during the winter months. A properly functioning system can offer more than comfort. It can contribute to reduced energy costs and a safer home overall. The first step in winter preparation for your HVAC system is a professional maintenance check-up.

Regular servicing is essential for the longevity and performance of your HVAC system. During a service visit, a technician will inspect the components, clean the system and make any necessary adjustments.

While you’re at it, verify the functionality of your thermostat. A faulty thermostat can lead to inefficient heating and higher energy bills. Ensure that it is properly calibrated and consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for added energy savings.

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