Make your home winter ready

Whether you’re ready for it or not, fall has arrived, and winter is just around the corner. The days are getting shorter and the temperature is starting to drop. So, it’s a good time to get some seasonal maintenance done before the snow and frost comes.  We have compiled a list of 10 things you need to do to protect your home this winter.

1. Clean your eavestroughs and downspouts. As leaves begin to fall they will undoubtedly fill your eavestroughs and downspouts, blocking water from making it off your roof and away from your house.
2. Inspect your roof and chimney. Take a look over your roof/chimney, even if it is done from the ground. Look for missing, damaged, or loose shingles.
3. Inspect all windows and doors for leaks.
4. Shut-off and drain outside faucets and in ground sprinkler systems. The faucets you use outside in the summer to wash your car, or water your grass are susceptible to freezing. If proper care is not taken to shut-off and drain these lines before winter, it can lead to pipes and faucets bursting or cracking
5. Clean and inspect your furnace. If required, hire a professional to perform any necessary maintenances.
6. Clean and inspect your dryer vent. Make sure there is no excess of lint in the dryer vent. Also, it is important to constantly check the external vent throughout the winter to ensure nothing is blocking it.
7. Winterize outdoor lawn equipment. Empty the gas tank, disconnect the spark plug, and drain the oil. Please reach out to your manufacture for specific details on winterizing.
8. Put away your summer furniture. Keep your patio furniture safe from the elements (including rust) by covering your pieces with a heavy tarp. If you have room, it is recommended you store furniture in a shed, garage or basement.
9. Trim down and remove scrubs, brushes and trees. This prevents them from falling and damaging your home during a winter storm.
10. Break out your shovels and check your snow blower. Change the oil in your snow blower and replace the spark plug if needed.

Lastly, it is always a good idea to touch base with your insurance company to make sure you have the proper coverage to protect your property this winter. If you have any questions or to review your coverage, please reach out to one of our friendly staff members today at 1.855.726.8627.