Check your roof for leaks
Even though roof maintenance is something that should regularly be done, a lot of people ignore this task and get caught off guard once winter arrives. Don’t let this happen to you and inspect your roof for potential issues. Make sure to do it before the weather gets worse, as small cracks can result in a huge disaster if there is a lot of snow piled up on the roof. Look for missing or broken shingles and damaged flashing. You can fix it on your own if you have some experience or call in the pros to ensure a job well done.
Clean your gutters
During fall, gutters and downspouts often get clogged with all the fallen leaves and various debris and dirt. This blockage can result in your house’s structure being affected, as the water that overflows from the gutters can damage your walls and foundation. Therefore, it’s important to clean your gutters and downspouts. Luckily, you can do it on your own, with a pair of gloves, a hose and ladders. Don’t forget to check for holes or rust, as that is a sign that the gutter might need replacing.
Sweep the chimneys
Another part of your home you should check at least once a year, and especially before wintertime, is your chimney and fireplace. Clogged chimneys present a fire hazard and can also lead to carbon monoxide poisoning. This is best dealt with by an expert.
Inspect your heating system
Of course, you cannot get through the winter with a broken heating system, so it’s vital that you get it checked out on time. Regardless of the type of system you use to stay warm, make sure the supply is uninterrupted and that there are no leaks. Check with professionals to see whether some parts need to be repaired or replaced.
Make sure the heat can’t escape
There is no point in heating up your space if the heat is just going to escape. So, make sure your insulation is properly installed and check whether there are any gaps around your doors and windows. If you can’t replace them, you can apply some caulk or weatherproofing strips. Also, remember to check your attic for any points of escape.
Examine your plumbing situation
Frozen pipes are another big problem that can occur during winter. In case they burst, you could be facing a big disaster. Furthermore, your water heater is also in danger during winter, so contact companies like Woden Valley Plumbing & Gasfitting as they can ensure you have hot water which is necessary for so many domestic tasks.
Trim the trees around the house
If there are any trees around your home, it’s best to trim them before winter arrives. Branches often break under the pressure of snow and they can easily land on your roof and damage it, not to mention that they can also injure household members. Moreover, if the trees are really old, you can consult a specialist and see if they should be chopped down.
It doesn’t matter where you live, you should not let winter catch you unprepared. Go through this checklist and make sure you take care of these important tasks so that you can have a comfy and cozy wintertime.