Winter has arrived in full swing. It is the time that you do a final inspection of how your home is tackling the cold weather. If you do not take the necessary steps to prepare your home for the winter, the harsh weather can damage your home’s plumbing system, electrical system, roof, and more. The damage can even lead to costly repairs or replacements.
Here are five quick winter home maintenance tips that will help you protect your home from the cold weather.
1. Inspect your roof
During winters, snow and ice can build up on your roof, which can destroy your roof shingles and damage the roof. These problems can further lead to leaks and holes, allowing water to seep through your attic. Schedule regular roof inspections with a professional to detect and fix developing issues before they become emergencies.
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2. Check your electrical system
The electrical system may fail during heavy snowfall and winter storms. Schedule a routine electrical maintenance tune-up with a professional to inspect your electrical system. They will check the main service panel, breaker wires, electrical circuits, sockets, heating systems, extension cords, and ground fault circuit interrupter for any signs of damage and will guide you on necessary repairs.
3. Clean your gutters
Cleaning your gutters and drains is essential while winterizing your home. Dirt, pine cones, leaves, and other debris in your gutter can lead to a leaky roof. It can even cause water damage to your home. Whereas, a clean gutter will allow the melted snow and ice to drain properly and reduce the risk of damage.
Also read: Top 5 Household Problems Resulting from Clogged Gutters
4. Prevent ice dams from forming
An ice dam is a buildup of ice that forms at the edge of the roof or gutters. Heavy snowfall and poor ventilation can contribute to ice dams. An ice dam lets water pool up behind it and causes seepage under roof shingles. This can further lead to damage such as stained or wet walls and ceilings and bubbled or peeling paint. You can prevent ice dams by:
- Installing heat cables
- Clearing the snow from your roof
- Having proper venting and insulation
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5. Prevent pipes from freezing
Frozen pipes are one of the most common problems during the winters. Frosting under the sink, strange smells, and restricted water flow are some of the signs of frozen pipes. You need to fix frozen pipes immediately or they could burst. You can prevent frozen pipes by:
- Keeping your home warm by running the heat and good insulation
- Letting the faucet stay on at a slow drip
Follow these maintenance tips to ensure that your home and family stay safe during the cold weather. You can also get an annual home inspection done if you think that your home and electrical system need to be professionally tuned.
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