As a homeowner, it is important to prep your home for cooler temperatures and the looming winter weather. When winterizing your home in the fall, luxury custom homebuilder, Paul Gray Homes, recommends these few steps to get your home ready for the harsh Kansas winter weather.
Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
– Check for drafts around windows and doors. Cold air can seep in, increasing heating costs.
– Use weatherstripping to seal gaps around doors and windows.
– Caulk cracks around window frames and door frames.
– Install storm windows if you have them, or use **window insulation film** for an extra layer of protection.
Check Your Attic
– Check insulation levels to ensure your attic has adequate insulation to prevent heat from escaping.
– Seal any gaps around vents, pipes, or chimneys with caulk or spray foam.
– Install attic stair covers or door seals to prevent heat from escaping into unheated areas.
Heating System Tune-up
– Schedule a professional inspection of your furnace, boiler, or heat pump with a certified HVAC professional.
– Replace your filters on your heating system to improve efficiency.
– Check your thermostat, and consider upgrading to a **programmable thermostat** to optimize heating.
– Clean air ducts to improve airflow and indoor air quality.
Inspect, insulate or winterize your pipes
– Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages to prevent freezing.
– Check for leaks and repair any you find before winter to avoid burst pipes.
– Drain outdoor faucets, remove hoses and cover them with insulated caps to protect them from freezing.
Check the Roof and Gutters
– Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles and get them repaired.
– Clean gutters of leaves and debris to prevent ice dams from forming.
– Install gutter guards to reduce future debris buildup.
– Trim nearby tree branches to prevent them from falling and damaging your roof during winter storms.
Seal the Fireplace
– Have your chimney inspected and cleaned by a professional before using it.
– Check the damper to ensure it opens and closes properly.
– Install a chimney cap to prevent debris and critters from entering.
– Consider using a fireplace draft stopper when not in use to keep cold air out.
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
– Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working properly.
– Replace the batteries
Prepare Outdoor Areas
– Store or cover outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements.
– Bring potted plants indoors or protect them with covers.
– Drain and store garden hoses to prevent them from freezing.
Stock Up on Winter Supplies
– Buy ice melt, salt, and snow shovels before the first snowfall. If you have a snow blower make sure it is in working order prior to the first snow.
– Prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, candles, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food and water in case of power outages.
Check Your Laundry Vents
– Fall is a great time to check your laundry vents to make sure they are cleared from lent and debris.
Gutters
– Clear your gutters from debris and make sure they are draining properly.
Sump Pump
-Check your sump pump to make sure it is draining properly. A great way to do this is to fill a pitcher with water and dump it in to your sump pump.
By taking these steps in the fall, you’ll make your home more comfortable and energy-efficient during the cold months ahead. To get started building your custom luxury home in Wichita, Kansas, call Paul Gray Homes today at 316-990-0000.