Winter is right around the corner and the season can be less than kind on your home. Repairs caused by winter weather can be costly and unexpected. With the surprises that 2020 has already brought us, no one needs any more costly surprises. Here are 6 ways to prepare your home for winter:
- Break Out the Ladder
Before the temperature drops and the rain/snow come our way, it’s a good idea to clean out the gutters. While you’re up there, be sure to check the trees surrounding your home for branches that may need to be trimmed or removed, and inspect your roof for problem areas to prevent possible leaks.
- Insulate Your Attic
It’s a well-known fact that heat rises, and without a properly insulated attic, you may be losing more heat from your home than you realize.
- Weatherproof Your Doors and Windows
Another way to save on your heating bill this winter is to check your doors and windows. Sometimes the solution is as simple as weather stripping or a door sweep. Keep the draft out and the heat in by caulking gaps surrounding your doors and windows.
- Examine Your Exterior
The next time you’re outside, take a look at the exterior of your home. Look for areas where heat could escape, leaks could occur, or areas that could wear down easily. These could be spaces that need to be painted, caulked, or sealed.
- Maintaining Your Heating System
The last thing you want is to be without heat in the middle of winter. Now might be a good time to inspect your heating system and make the necessary repairs. We recommend calling the right person for the job, a reputable HVAC specialist.
- Keep Pipes from Freezing
By keeping your home warm, you prevent the chance of your pipes freezing. Pipes in garages, basements, and other cooler areas run a higher risk of freezing and bursting open. A burst pipe can be a complete nightmare, so we suggest covering them with pipe insulation, which is inexpensive and commonly found at local hardware stores. When in doubt, consult an expert and call a reliable plumber.
Spend On Fixes Now To Save Later
The costs from winterizing your home can add up, but money spent now may mean less money spent than if something pops up this winter. Let Dover Federal save you some money and help you get there! Get 10% off of select home services from local companies participating in our Home Equity Partners Program when you draw off of your Dover FCU Home Equity.
