Peoria Standard

As winter approaches in Illinois, homeowners are advised to take proactive measures to protect their homes from the harsh weather conditions. With freezing temperatures, snow, and the risk of damage, it is essential to prepare your home for the season. According to Consumer Reports, "water damage, particularly damage linked to frozen and burst pipes, accounts for a major share of homeowner’s insurance claims." Therefore, it is crucial to take the necessary steps to prevent such incidents.

One of the first steps to prepare your home for winter is to protect indoor pipes. Basements, in particular, are prone to burst pipes, so it is important to pay special attention to this area. Insulating the attic or crawl space can also help to prevent heat loss and reduce the risk of frozen pipes.

Servicing the furnace and chimney is another important task. Annual inspections should be a standard practice to ensure that they are functioning properly and to prevent any potential hazards. Additionally, removing and storing window screens and installing glass storm windows can create an insulating layer of air, providing extra protection against the cold weather.

Maintaining the integrity of your roof is crucial during winter. Snow can be heavy and cause shingles to lift, leading to water leaks. Therefore, it is essential to repair any loose roofing shingles before the winter season begins. Cleaning and inspecting gutters is also important to prevent ice dams and water damage.

Outdoor areas should not be neglected when preparing for winter. Removing any dead or ailing tree limbs can prevent them from falling and causing damage during storms. Securing outdoor water sources, such as draining garden hoses and removing them from the spigot, is necessary to prevent freezing and bursting. Marking garden beds, paths, and driveways can assist with snow shoveling and prevent accidents.

Making sure your home is properly sealed is another crucial step. Re-caulking windows and doors can seal any gaps and prevent drafts, keeping your home warm and energy-efficient. Consumer Reports also suggests reversing ceiling fans to help circulate warm air and prevent heat from rising to the ceiling.

Other important tasks include draining fuel from gas-powered engines, tidying up gardens to prevent insects from hiding out, and mulching flower beds for added protection. Keeping your deck clean and applying sealer if needed can also help prolong its lifespan. Checking on the snowblower to ensure it is working properly is essential for snow removal.

As winter approaches, it is also a good time to review your insurance coverage. By checking on your policy, you can avoid any unwanted surprises in the event of damage caused by winter weather.

Lastly, it is important to take safety precautions. Preventing door locks from freezing by spraying a powered-graphite lubricant and maintaining smoke detectors by changing batteries and testing them regularly are simple yet effective measures to ensure the safety of your home and family.

Preparing your home for winter may seem overwhelming, but by following these simple steps, you can protect your home from the challenges and risks associated with the season. As Bankrate advises, "staying ahead of the game can save a homeowner thousands of dollars and days and weeks of unwanted challenges or issues." So, take the time to prepare your home and enjoy the beauty of winter without any unnecessary worries.

To find out more, go to this link: https://repryanspain.com/2023/11/30/how-to-prepare-your-home-for-winter/