It’s been a mild winter so far, but we all know that it can get cold and snowy in New England quickly. While some climate-specific maintenance tasks fall by the wayside during this season, winterizing your home should not be one of them! Taking proper steps to winterize your property will not only ensure that it stays safe through unexpected weather emergencies but can also save you money in the long run by reducing energy costs and preventing costly repairs down the line. Follow these 10 tips to winterize your home this season.

1. Clean your gutters – Clogged and overflowing gutters can cause water damage to your roof, walls and foundation. Make sure that you clean your gutters regularly, especially after a big snowstorm.
2. Check for drafts – Cold air coming in through gaps around windows or doors can make it harder to keep your home warm. Caulk and weatherstrip around windows and doors to reduce drafts.
3. Inspect your roof – Ice dams, caused by snow melting off the roof and then refreezing at the eaves, can cause serious damage if not taken care of. Make sure to inspect your roof periodically to make sure it’s in good condition.
4. Install storm windows/doors – Storm windows and doors can help reduce heat loss through your regular windows and doors, giving you added insulation for the winter months.
5. Wrap exposed pipes – Exposed water pipes are vulnerable to freezing in cold temperatures, so make sure to wrap them with insulation or a heating tape before the temperature drops too much.
6. Clean chimneys and fireplaces – Regularly cleaning your chimney or fireplace can prevent dangerous fires from starting in your home. Have the flue inspected annually to make sure it’s safe for use.
7. Inspect smoke and carbon monoxide detectors – Make sure that all of your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are in good working condition. Replace any batteries as necessary, and test each detector to ensure it’s working properly.
8. Check for pests – Mice and other critters love to use your house for warmth, so make sure you check for signs of pest activity frequently and take action if needed.
9. Get your furnace serviced – Have your furnace serviced at least once a year to make sure it’s running efficiently and safely.
10. Regularly check for signs of water damage – Water leaks can occur due to frozen pipes or other causes, so keep an eye out for signs of water damage in your walls or floors and take action as soon as possible.

With a few preventative measures, you can avoid many of the issues that arise from winter weather. These simple tips should help you get started on preparing your home for the colder months ahead. If you need assistance finding professionals to help you with routine maintenance or servicing your furnace, contact us and we’d be happy to be a resource for you. Be proactive this winter and take steps now to protect your home against potential damage. Stay warm!