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Winter Woes: 5 Problems to Prevent and Look Out For
As another winter draws near, it’s important to start preparing, so you aren’t caught off guard. Beyond the typical steps of pulling out your winter clothes, dusting off the snow shovel, and making sure your car is ready, it’s also important to make sure your house is ready for all the unique challenges that the winter season can bring. With some simple preparation, you can ensure the safety and comfort of you and your family for the duration of this season.
Have Ice Melt Available, Don’t Just Know It’s Good to Have
As winter approaches, most stores start stocking at least a small quantity of ice melt for purchase. Since it’s in nearly every store, it can be easy to just walk by, making a mental note that you need to get some for when the snow starts falling. Don’t just think about buying it, though, go ahead and buy it. You don’t want to be sliding down an ice-covered driveway to your nearest store, only to find they’re sold out of ice melt. By having an adequate amount available, you ensure you’ll be ready the moment the weather changes.
Pests Like Your Warm House, Too
Every year, as the seasons change, the inevitable migration happens. No, we’re not talking about birds heading south, we’re talking about insects, spiders, and other pests moving into your home. Animals other than humans appreciate the warmth a house provides, and so when the temperature drops, they’re sure to come in and make themselves at home. However, if you have a pest control specialist come out before the temperature drops too far, you can create a barrier around your home that keeps pests out where they belong.
Watch for the “Heavy” Snow
Snowflakes swirling through the air don’t seem to weigh much, and they don’t, at least individually. Pile up millions of them on top of your roof, though, and suddenly these innocent little snowflakes really start to throw their weight around. Have a roofer come by to inspect your roof, and make sure none of the wood sheathing has deteriorated over the summer. If it has, and you’re not aware of it, you could wake up to a big surprise with a collapsed roof and a pile of snow in your living room.
Keep Those Pipes Toasty
A leaking or burst pipe is a major inconvenience any time of year, but especially in winter, when the water rushing in is likely to be ice cold. Make sure your pipes are in good condition, and insulate them using approved materials and techniques. If you’re unsure, call a plumbing company like Clearwater Plumbing to be certain your pipes will be able to withstand all that winter throws at them. Additionally, on especially frigid nights, it’s important to open your faucets up to drip slightly to keep water from freezing in the pipes and causing them to burst.
Keep the Warm Air Coming
Your furnace is the center of your comfort during the winter. An old or poorly maintained furnace could bring more displeasure than comfort, though. Have an HVAC technician inspect and clean your furnace, and be sure to replace your filters regularly, to ensure an entire season of efficient, quiet, and reliable operation.
You can’t stop winter from coming, but you can prepare for it. With a few simple steps, you can ensure your home is just as prepared as everything else is for the upcoming cold weather.
