Winter is one of the hardest times of the year. There are few opportunities to get outside to perform maintenance on your home, so it is best to go into the winter season with no outstanding problems. We’ve compiled a list of things you should add to your to-do list right now to get ready for the upcoming cold season.
Give Your Heating System a Tune-Up
Have a professional inspect your home’s heating system. There is nothing worse than having your heat break in the middle of winter. Performing routine maintenance now will keep your system running smoothly all winter long. Be sure to change any filters in the system to keep it working efficiently.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
In the winter, ceiling fans should be set to the reverse position. This helps to push warm air down to the floor, circulating it around the room. Keeping the warm air moving can help to reduce energy costs in your home by warming up the room with airflow.
Check the Roof
Take out a pair of binoculars and scan the roof for damaged shingles. If you can’t tell what you are looking at, it is best to call in a professional roofer. Some companies offer a free inspection of your roof, noting any damaged areas. Together you can design a plan to repair the damaged section or replace the whole roof.
Seal Up Drafty Windows and Doors
Apply a layer of caulk to the edges of your windows to keep the cold air out. Use weather-stripping around doors to block the drafts from the outside elements. Making your home airtight will decrease your energy bills, keeping the warm air inside your home.
Clean the Gutters
Be sure the gutters are free of debris. Fall leaves are pretty but can clog your gutters, causing them to back up. Clean gutters mean more space for the snow and ice to melt, so be sure to clean them out before the snow flies.
By completing these five tasks, you home will be in better shape for the upcoming fall season. A little preparation goes a long way when dealing with cold temperatures. If you need any help, Peak Construction is here to help you make your way through another New York winter.