Home Maintenance Tips for Winter

Winter has started in our area and it is a good time to go through this checklist to winterize your home. Maintenance is the key to preventing more significant problems in the future.

Outdoor Tips:

Check your roof:

Make sure you check your roof for any missing shingles. If you have any loose shingles, this could cause any water to leak into your roof and cause issues.

Gutters:

While you have the ladder out, clear out any debris from the gutters. This will prevent them from leaking and sagging. Use protective gear to protect you from the elements and possible pests that may have made their home in your gutters.

Trees:

Trim back any dead tree branches. The weight of snow and ice could cause them to fall down onto your home and cause damage.

Indoor Tips:

Fireplace Maintenance

If you have a fireplace, check it to make sure the chimney is clear. Clean out any soot and ashes. If there is a draft, even when the damper is closed, it may need to be repaired or replaced.

Windows

Newer homes were built to prevent cold drafts from entering your home. But if you have an older home you can do a few things to keep the cool air out of your house. Check the weather stripping and caulk. Replace this if necessary. If your windows are really old you can look into peel-and-stick window insulation film. It could keep up to 70% of heat from escaping. (Which can lower your heating bills!)

Furnace

If you haven’t used it yet – now is the time to check it. Check your filter and change it on a regular basis. Remember maintenance is the key! Have an HVAC professional come out once a year to check and clean your furnace.

Bonus Tip– If you are a current member of HomeMembership you can renew now and lock in your price. Plus you will get 12 months of free furnace filters!

There is an increased risk for fire hazards over the winter, so make sure your smoke and carbon dioxide detectors are working properly.

Make sure you are prepared for winter with items like snow shovels, salt to melt the ice, and ice scrapers for your cars. If you have a snow blower, make sure it is ready to start up when you need it.

If you are looking for a recommendation, we have a large list of service providers that provide our members a discount. Just another perk to being part of the HomeMembership family.

Not a member? We are more than a home warranty plan. We offer better options and you can even have a $0 deductible on repairs when you have your car and auto insurance with us. Get an Instant Quote now!