What Essential Repairs Before Winter?
Soon enough, we're entering the winter season and the most common question is: what do I need to repair before winter?
Let's prepare a checklist, follow it and make sure you have everything checked and repaired, it will save energy, which can lower bills and provide peace of mind. Ready?
1. Inspect and Clean Gutters
Blocked gutters may result in water damage. It's important to remove leaves and debris, inspect for leaks or damage, and verify that downspouts are channeling water away from the foundation of your home.
2. Check the Roof
Check your roof for any missing or damaged bitumen or tiles, and address any problems to avoid leaks. Additionally, think about enhancing insulation in the attic to retain heat. A well insulated attic maintains the heat within the house for longer time, which results in using less energy.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can significantly increase heating costs. Check for gaps and seal them with weather stripping or caulk. Ask your local diy store for alternatives about how to seal windows before winter in simple steps.
4. Service the Heating System
Have your boiler serviced by a professional to ensure it’s running efficiently. This is an important step to identify any issues that could cause a breakdown during the coldest months. Inefficient burning may result in damage, if not just higher bills.
5. Inspect the Chimney
If you have a chimney, have it inspected and cleaned to prevent chimney fires. Ensure the damper opens and closes properly and that there are no cracks in the chimney structure.
6. Check Insulation
Proper insulation is key to maintaining a warm home, be sure to check the insulation in your attic. Add more if necessary to keep the cold out and the heat in. Sometimes having an extra rug over on floors can help keep some heat in, if your floors are lacking in insulation.
7. Prepare Outdoor Plumbing
Drain and store garden hoses, and shut off outdoor taps to prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. Consider insulating any exposed pipes in unheated areas of your home.
8. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter means more time indoors and increased use of heating, which can raise the risk of fire and carbon monoxide poisoning. Test all detectors and replace batteries as needed.
9. Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Ensure you have essential supplies like salt or sand for icy driveways and emergency kits in case of power outages.
10. Inspect and Repair Driveways and Walkways
Check for cracks or damage in driveways and walkways. Repairing these before winter can prevent further damage from freezing and thawing cycles.
Where do I get the money to do all of that?
If you are renting your property, your first port of call should be your housing provider or landlord, to get them to fix any issues and carry out necessary repairs.
If you are going to have to spend money on winter proofing yourself, then you can always rely of your local credit union! You do not necessarily need thousands to make little tweaks around the house, if that is the case, you may consider the Family Loan, quick, easy and simple.
