This Old Workshop, Winterizing your home

Winterizing your house.

Winter is here whether you like it or not. It is time to prepare your house for the cold.

Heating systems:

It is time to get your heating system checked out before it gets cold. Clean the filters and make sure your system is working well. If you wait till you need it you might have to spend a few days in the cold if something goes wrong. Heating professionals are busiest in the wintertime. No need to get in that line unless you have to. Check your specific heating system manual for steps on preparing it for the cold season.

Fireplace and chimneys:

Take time to check the chimney to make sure it is clear of leaves and nests built by birds, squirrels, or any other varmints. Check the damper to make sure it closes tightly to keep cold air out when the fireplace is not in use. Dampers may rust and deteriorate over time and become less effective. Again its best to check these before the weather gets bad. Experts suggest you have a professional sweep and clean your chimney once a year. Your safety is worth the time and expense.

Roof:

Check your roof for leaks or loose shingles. Repair them correctly or have a professional do the work. Preventing water damage is far cheaper then repairing the damage after it happens.

Windows:

Since screens can block out sunlight and lessen the heat that the light brings, remove them. Store your screens in a safe place to assure they are ready for the Summertime. . You can determine if a window needs weather stripping by slowly moving the back of your hand around the window's perimeter. Since the back of your hands are more sensitive, you should feel the cool air coming in.

You can purchase window sealing kits at your local hardware store or Home warehouse. Some people prefer to tape plastic sheeting over their windows and this typically will help seal them, but it also makes the windows hard to see out of, and the amount that the thin plastic actually insulates is very minor. Weather stripping is just as effective in sealing the gaps and it leaves your windows clear so you can enjoy the winter views.

Doors

You can apply weather stripping around the edges of all doors that open to the outside. This is not a place to skimp so don't buy the cheap felt stripping. It is the least expensive, and actually the least durable. You have several options so check your Home warehouse stores, and use their service experts. They will be able to assist you with your specific situation.

Plumbing:

If you have pipes in unheated areas of the house, such as crawl spaces, attics or uninsulated outside walls these pipes can freeze and burst. It is best to Insulate pipes with flexible heating cable. Wrap the pipe with the cable and then cover with foam-sleeve insulation, these have a slit. Up one side that makes it easy to install. Another thing to check is your outside hoses, drain them completely if they are stored outside.

Some outdoor winterizing:

Give your deck an additional coat of sealer.
Drain gas from your lawnmower into a proper gas can and store in a safe location.
Check the home's foundation and siding for cracks or gaps. Repair if necessary.
Close and cover your swimming pool.
Cover outdoor furniture or store it inside.

Prepare for the winter by stocking up Emergency Supplies

Candles and matches or a small butane lighter.
Flashlight and batteries.
Full propane tank or charcoal for barbecue grills.
Battery operated radio or weather radio. Batteries.
Snow blower, shovels, and/or chemicals to melt snow.
Fill and store containers of bottled water. (Where they won't freeze).
Stock up some non perishable food to last a few days.
Paper plates and plastic eating utensils and paper towels.
Make sure you have fuel for your generator or gas heaters, a little extra firewood.

You never know when you might need some emergency supplies. But you will miss them if you need them and forgot to be prepared.

With a little forethought you can prepare your house for the coming cold weather. Have a look around and do the work before the weather gets bad.

Daniel