24 Oct Seven Well-Dwelling Expert Tips to Get Your Home Ready for Winter
Getting your home ready for winter isn’t just about comfort. It’s about protecting your home from damage and preventing air leaks that raise energy bills. Cold temperatures, ice and moisture can cause harm. Here are seven smart steps Greater Cincinnati and Dayton homeowners should take:
Clean Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to ice dams and roof leaks. Clear gutters allow melting snow to drain properly, preventing water damage to your roof, siding, and foundation. Check that downspouts direct water at least 5 feet away from your home.
Service Your HVAC System
HomeSmiles of Cincinnati offers complete home maintenance, including weatherization tasks.
A professional furnace tune-up ensures your system runs efficiently, saves on energy bills and prevents mid-winter breakdowns. Service should include replacing furnace filters. Dirty filters restrict airflow and heating efficiency.
Check Your Ventilation
Don’t shut off vents in rooms or the basement to stop even air flow throughout your home. This can result in condensation that promotes mold or frozen pipes.
Seal Windows and Doors
Drafts are a major source of heat loss. If you can feel cold air coming through, use
weatherstripping around doors and apply caulk to gaps or cracks in window frames.
Inspect Your Roof and Attic
Look inside your attic for any signs of moisture or daylight coming through. Check your roof for cracked, curling, or missing shingles and have repairs made before the first snowfall.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter means more time indoors and increased use of heating equipment. Make sure smoke and CO detectors are working and have fresh batteries. Test each unit monthly.
Prepare Your Outdoor Systems
Drain and disconnect garden hoses, shut off exterior water valves, and cover outdoor faucets to prevent freezing. Store or cover patio furniture and outdoor equipment to extend their lifespan. ©
Need Help?
The Well-Dwelling Experts Network at Natural Interiors® has healthy-home contractors in every category that service Greater Cincinnati and Dayton. For home-maintenance help, visit HomeSmiles of Cincinnati or call (513) 587-6877. You can also reach the network at contact@naturalinteriors.com.
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