Preparing your house for winter may not be on the top of your to-do list right now. After all, most of us don’t enjoy spending our down time doing home maintenance tasks when we could be enjoying the fall foliage, going apple picking, or sipping pumpkin-spiced lattes. But, here’s the reality: being ready now gives you more time to enjoy sledding, snowball fights and holiday shopping when winter hits. When the temperature begins to drop, it’s time to start getting ready for the colder season ahead. With plenty of sunlight and no snow to stop you, fall is the perfect time to start “winterizing” your home! We’ve created a “winterization” checklist to help you get ready for your adventures in our winter wonderland state.
- Be sure to check all of your detectors- these devices save lives! Residential fires are more common in winter, so it is important that all your smoke detectors work. Now is the time to replace the batteries and make sure they’re working properly. If you don’t already have one, installing a carbon monoxide detector is highly recommended.
- If you’re migrating to find warmer weather this winter, you want to avoid having any plumbing issues while you’re gone. Be sure and keep your heat on a minimum of 55 degrees Fahrenheit if you’re not planning on shutting your water off.
- Don’t forget the water outside! Bring in hoses and turn off valves to outside faucets so they do not freeze and burst. This also goes for sprinkler systems, ponds, or fountains. There are companies across the state who specialize in winterizing sprinklers or you can do-it-yourself with the right tools.
- While a cool breeze might feel good in the summer, it’s bitter in the winter! To help keep chilly air from leaking in through window cracks, swap out the lightweight summer curtains with thermal lined curtains or drapes. They’ll help keep your home warm and lower your heating bill. For the windows that don’t get direct sunlight, keep the curtains or drapes closed to keep the cold air out and the warm air in.
- Protect your outdoor furniture. Cold temperatures, snow and ice can damage outdoor furniture and grills. If possible, store them in the garage or basement. If you have a gas grill with a propane tank, close the tank valve and disconnect the tank first. If you don’t have storage space for your items, purchase covers to protect them from the elements.
- Unclog those gutters! Clogged gutters can lead to the formation of ice dams on your roof. Ice dams occur when water backs up and freezes near the edge of the roof. The ice continues to build up and eventually forms “dams” that block the path of melted snow from your roof. Water then starts pooling in mini reservoirs and begins to seep into your house, causing water damage. To prevent ice dams, clean out the dead leaves and other gunk in your gutters so water can drain freely. Don’t want to use gloves and elbow grease? Check out this gutter cleaner list from Popular Mechanics here for easy-to-use alternatives.
- Change air filters on your furnace/HVAC system and have an annual tune-up before you use it for the first time this season. Your furnace will function more efficiently with a clean filter. A dirty filter obstructs airflow and makes your furnace run longer to heat your home.
- Follow the old Scout Promise: always be prepared! Dig out your shovels and salt, and tune up your snowplow. Do you have a city street plow service? Check out your city’s seasonal street parking regulations and place reflective posts along your street or driveway so plows don’t accidentally destroy your landscaping.
- Get the roof ready! Snow, rain, ice and wind can make it challenging for your home to withstand winter’s wrath. Of particular concern should be your roof. Inspect the roof and look for broken, frayed, curled or missing shingles; clogged valleys; damaged flashing; or deterioration. Cut back overhanging branches to prevent damage to shingles and gutters. Check the attic and ceilings for staining from water leakage. While you’re up there, make sure the attic is properly ventilated to prevent mold and mildew.
- Don’t forget your caulk! Caulking around windows prevents cold air from entering your home. Add weather-stripping or clear plastic to doors and windows where there are drafts. Don’t know how to caulk? Check out Lowe’s tips and tricks!
- Prepare a 72-hour kit. Sometimes a big snowstorm descends upon us, so be ready with a 72-hour kit stocked with food, water, and other supplies. You can buy pre-made 72-hour kits online or at most camping and outdoor stores. Better yet, save some money by making your own kit. Have on hand batteries, water, emergency radio, flashlights/candles, blankets, can of gas, food and winter jackets in case you lose power during a storm.
Getting yourself ready for winter is a snap. Gloves? Check! Scarf? Right here. With our checklist, getting your home ready is as easy as pumpkin pie. Now that your home is ready for winter, you can enjoy the beautiful fall season in style. Don’t know where to look first? See our list of fun things to do in Michigan in the fall on our Family and Home blog.
