George K.
With the winter season comes extreme weather conditions that can compromise the structure of your house and affect your quality of life if you are not prepared. Taking your winter clothes out of the back of the closet and stocking up on hot chocolate and comfort food aren’t the only things you need to consider. In this article, we will help you prepare your house for extreme weather conditions so you can save on heating costs and have a comfortable, joyful winter.
Insulate Windows and Doors
If you want to stay warm and cozy during the harsh weather conditions, make sure you properly insulate your windows and doors to prevent cool air and rainwater from seeping into your house. Insulating your doors and windows is essential to keep your house warm and reduce your heating bills. You can use any type of sealant to cover the gaps in the walls. Sealing the smallest slits will block the chilly breeze from coming into your house. Also, consider repainting your wooden door or window frame with waterproof paint to prevent the wood from becoming concentrated with moisture and rotting. Repainting will also close any gaps in the wood, which could pose a problem later on.
Prepare Your Heating System
People tend to forget to check their heating system before the winter strikes. Since you haven’t used the heating system for a long time, problems will likely arise. Make sure your heating system is running smoothly and that there are no signs of damage. Getting your heating system maintained and serviced is another crucial step to prepare your house for the winter. Make sure the water heater is working properly and consider getting it professionally cleaned before the cold months creep up to flush any sediment out. If you have a fireplace, be sure to clean it thoroughly and clear away the debris.
Restoration Services
If you have a leaky pipe, wet ceiling, rotten furniture, or any other type of water damage, be sure to contact a restoration service. A restoration company will help you mitigate the damage caused by a winter disaster. The disaster-control professionals at CottonGDS.com recommend draining water from any unused sources and insulating the pipelines to prevent leakage. In case of any unexpected problems caused by sudden weather changes, contact a professional immediately to avoid further damage and keep the cost down.
Clear Gutters and Downpipes
Gutters and downpipes can freeze during extreme weather conditions. Make sure you drain the water out of them and clear away any debris or dirt. The debris can clog the gutters and block your drainage system, leading to expensive repairs down the line. If you have a garden or yard outside, make sure you keep the leaves away from open drains. Call a repairman or plumber if you need to fix your pipes or gutters.
Trim Tree Branches
By the time winter arrives, your tree branches would have already grown considerably and they will hang loosely over your house. You must trim your trees down as quickly as possible. Winter brings harsh weather conditions like a gale, storms, heavy snowfall, or rain. The weather can break your tree branches, causing serious damage to your house. Furthermore, the trees can become a passage for rain and snow to travel to your roof, ceilings, balcony, and windows. So, make sure you get those trees trimmed to avoid any undesirable situations later.
Insulate Walls, Roof, and Basement
Insulating your house can help minimize the damage from extreme weather conditions while keeping you warm and cozy. Insulation will also minimize your energy usage and help save a lot of money on electric bills. By boosting your house’s natural defense system, you are less likely to suffer from the worst that winter has to offer. Make sure you check your entire house for any leaks or cracks that can be a nuisance later on. Check your roof, walls, and attic for signs of damage. You certainly don’t want water falling from the ceiling once the harsh weather strikes.
Keep Pipelines Warm and Dry
The worst that can happen to your house in winter is a burst pipeline. A broken pipe will fill up your entire house within minutes and ruin your furniture and walls. Consider insulating your pipelines to keep them from freezing and bursting, and ensure they are drained if you don’t plan on using them anytime soon.
It can be difficult to deal with the adverse effects of harsh weather conditions, but there are a few things you can do to make sure your house is ready for the winter. With these tips in mind and a little forethought, you can enjoy a warm and cozy winter in the comfort of your house.
