Winter Is Coming: How to Prepare Your Home for Colder Months

As temperatures drop, power and gas bills tend to climb. A little proactive planning and a few quick fixes can prevent costly damage and help you save money all season.

Follow these simple steps to keep your home warm and your wallet safe from surprise repairs this winter.

1. Prevent Water Damage

Water expands as it freezes, and that can cause serious damage. Pipes can burst when water freezes inside them or when pressure builds behind an ice blockage. To prevent flooding:

• Drain water from sprinkler systems.
• Disconnect and store outdoor hoses.
• Drain and cover exterior faucets with foam insulation.
• Insulate pipes that run through unheated areas like the attic, basement, crawlspace or garage.

Don't forget the gutters

Gutters clogged with leaves, ice or snow can't drain properly, which can push water into your roof or walls. Have a trusted roofer or contractor clean your gutters and check that downspouts drain away from the house. Deeper gutters with leaf guards can reduce future problems.

2. Clean the Fireplace and Chimney

Preventing fire damage is just as important. Before you cozy up by the fire, have a professional inspect and clean your chimney to remove soot and debris that could ignite.

Dreaming of a fireplace update? Read our post on renovating your fireplace for ideas you can enjoy all year.

3. Check for Leaks and Drafts

When warm air escapes through gaps and cracks, your heating system works harder and your bills go up. Sealing leaks is fairly simple:

• Use caulk to seal gaps around door and window frames.
• Add weatherstripping around doors and operable windows.
• Consider a home energy audit. Utilities like Georgia Power and Jackson EMC offer programs to help you understand your energy use and where to improve.

For more ways to save, see our post on reducing energy costs at home.

Plan Your Next Home Upgrade

Everyone should love the time they spend at home. If you're planning upgrades or improvements this year, our team can help turn your ideas into reality. Explore our remodeling services.

Ready to plan your project? Call Tracy Tesmer Design and Remodeling at 678-450-1700 or contact us today.