Winter is just around the corner. We are bringing out our coats, hats, scarves, and mittens from their summer long hibernation. However, most of us don’t think about how to prepare our house for Jack Frost’s arrival. By preparing your home ahead of time, you may avoid unnecessary damage or a claim. Then, sit back, relax and enjoy your cozy warm home as we all snuggle in for the winter! Here are some tips on how to winterize your home.

Bursting Pipes

As the weather gets colder, your pipes become more at risk to burst. Before the weather dips below freezing, make sure to check your pipes for cracks or leaks. During the winter, make sure that your pipes stay warm. This will help prevent damage from freezing water expanding and bursting the pipes. If you travel during the winter for an extended amount of time, it might be better to drain your pipes entirely and turn off the water to avoid burst pipes should there be a power failure or the heat go out and remember to lower the heat but not turn it off completely when away.

Furnace Inspection

If this winter is anything like last year’s polar vortex, using the furnace is a necessity. Get your furnace checked to make sure it is ready to provide heat all winter long Be prepared with a back-up heat source if needed and keep your carbon monoxide monitor and fire detectors in working order. Also, check for faulty air circulation in your home and make sure to replace your filters monthly to keep harmful particles from circulating in your home Unclean filters are also a fire hazard to the home. Keep the area around the furnace clear of anything with the potential to catch fire.

Insulation

Checking the insulation, specifically near the roof, is important during the winter. Insufficient insulation can lead to ice dams on the roof. This is caused by heat rising through the roof causing snow to melt and refreeze near the bottom of a sloped roof. The ice dams could keep water from draining off the roof. If the water can’t be drained, it starts to sink through the roof or pulling gutters away from the home, causing water damage. Insulation is also important for keeping the house warm. Using door snakes, weather-stripping, and other methods help keep the heat inside.

Clear Sidewalks and Driveways

As a homeowner, it is your responsibility to keep your driveway and sidewalks clear of ice and snow. If someone slips and fall, you can potentially be held liable for their injuries. Whether you shovel the driveway, pay the neighborhood kids to do it, or hire a snowplow service, make sure to keep walkways clear. Be sure to use salt or sand to add traction and melt ice patches.

As the weather drops, we want to make sure you are properly insured. If you have any questions about your policy, or would like to add coverage, call us at 330-533-3301, email us, or check out our Facebook page