Well, it’s that time of year: Winter is at our doorstep! Once the trick-or-treaters disappear into the night and the temperature drops, everything starts to change in terms of atmosphere. It’s also inevitable that the weather is only going to get worse from here. So, gearing up your home for the dead of winter is a priority that should be handled now to protect it and your family during the colder months of the year. To get your home prepped and ready, here are some important tasks that you shouldn’t forget.
Clean Up The Yard
Before the nastiest of the nasty weather arrives, be absolutely sure to clear away any leaves and debris left behind throughout your yard. Fall weather can be windy, wet and messy, and those mountains of leaves won’t do you any favours, either. If debris is left on your lawn or ends up around a storm drain, it can end up damaging your lawn and may prevent excess moisture from getting where it needs to be handled by a runoff and drainage system to avoid flooding. With that said, be sure to have your yard cleaned up from the fall. If there is already snow on your lawn, make sure to get this done during the spring! If you need help, know that expert handymen are just a phone call or email away; we’re happy to help you tackle your yard work with ease and expertise.
Clear Out the Gutters
In addition to your yard, the gutters are another priority task to incorporate into your winter prep plan at home. These fixtures prevent all of the moisture from pooling along the roof and close to the foundation of your home, keeping it safe and dry. This leads to a more comfortable, longer-lasting home that needs less maintenance as time goes on. So, if you haven’t already had yours cleaned, now is the time to do so before it’s too late!
Check Windows, Apply Weather-Stripping
Now is also a good time to inspect your windows and doors for any signs of air leaks, damage or otherwise, as you won’t be able to do so when it gets frigid and wintry out there. Even slight cracks can cause a hefty dent in your utility bills during the winter. If you have any broken frames, have them replaced now before the snow arrives. Also, if your windows require weather-stripping for that extra tight seal, don’t forget to take care of it before the snow hits!
Repair Stairs, Entranceway & Walkways
If the stairs, entranceway or walkways on your property are in any way damaged, it’s a good idea to have them repaired now before the ice and snow arrive. Ignoring these tasks can create a safety hazard for you, your family and anyone accessing your home. If there are damaged steps or broken interlocking stones beneath a layer of ice or snow, someone can easily get injured or worse. Have any external stairs and walkways fixed before winter by reaching out to experienced experts in clearing away debris and performing proper, reliable fixes, Some, like To Do-Done, also specialize in interlock work that can be tricky to manage on your own.
Install And Check Detectors
With the fire roaring during those extra-cold winter nights, you should always ensure that your fire and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. If you don’t have any installed for some reason, do so immediately, as they become an increasing danger during the winter months. Keeping a close eye on safety and wellness is critical in the winter season!
Inspect the Furnace
Making sure that your furnace is in good working condition before the dead of winter arrives is one of the most important tasks on your checklist. The last thing you want to experience is a heating system breakdown when you need it the most – in subzero temperatures. Even if you’ve installed a new system recently, it’s wise to have it tested and fine-tuned every year. Regular maintenance of your furnace will keep you comfortable, but it will also help to prolong the life of your furnace and save money on your energy bills.
Test Your Drainage System
If you have a sump pump system, now’s the best time to test the electrical components and to run some water through it to ensure it’s still functional. If the pump doesn’t start or it fills with water, there could be either an electrical problem or blockage somewhere along the drainage system that needs repair. If you forget to do this important step, you could end up with a flooded basement if the sump pump fails to start after a heavy rainstorm or snow melt.
Check the Outdoor Lighting
All it takes is one burnt out bulb to turn a well-lit walkway into a danger zone. With plenty of snow and ice on the way, it’s important to have all your outdoor lighting features checked and maintained. If any areas are particularly dark and hard to see, installing lighting in this area can help prevent slip and fall accidents and make the area a safer place for pedestrians.
Repair the Deck
Do you have cracks or weak boards on your deck? Are the panels shifting or moving when you walk on it? Leaving your deck repairs until the spring is never a good idea, no matter how small the problem is. The cold temperatures and freeze and thaw cycles will only make matters worse, costing you more to fix it in the spring than if you were to do it in the fall.
If your home isn’t prepared for winter yet, contact our experienced and friendly team at To Do-Done. Our handyman and renovation services can take care of your internal and external winterizing tasks. We look forward to serving you!