FALL IS HERE - IS YOUR HOUSE WINTER READY?
Winter in the Inland Northwest and Montana can be particularly tough on homeowners and their properties. Harsh weather and freezing temperatures make repairs more challenging and increase stress. Taking steps to prep your home for cold weather is essential, not just for your comfort but also for your wallet. To help you prepare, we’ve compiled a list of 8 Tips or “To-Dos” to tackle before winter hits.
1. Clean / Remove Debris out of Gutters and off the Roof
Cleaning out your gutters before winter is essential, especially in Spokane and Coeur d’Alene, Idaho. Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, water damage, and roof leaks as snow and ice accumulate. By removing debris, you ensure that water flows freely and reduce the risk of costly damage and maintenance issues during the harsh winter months. To help with this, we are offering a $399 Gutter and Roof Cleaning Service. This also includes a FREE 21 Point Roof Condition Report!
Don’t end up like this guy! Let us help you! Click the link for more information and to sign up for this service!
2. Insulate Your Home / Energy Audit
Getting an energy audit and an insulation inspection is essential to pinpoint and fix inefficiencies in your home. You may want to consider upgrading/adding more insulation. This helps reduce heating costs, prevent drafts, and ensure a cozy, warm winter. Adding insulation to uninsulated areas like attics, floors, crawl spaces, and basements, and sealing air leaks can save up to 20% on your home’s heating and cooling costs. Check for drafts around windows and doors and add weatherstripping to stop heated inside air from escaping and cold air from making its way into your home.
3. Service Your Heating System
A well-maintained heating system operates more efficiently, saving you money on heating costs. Before cold weather hits, have your heating system professionally serviced. A technician will come out to check for worn parts, leaks, or other issues and make sure that everything is in good working order. You should also clean or replace the filter and consider adding insulation to ductwork to increase your heating system’s efficiency and lower your heating bills. See below a list of trusted local HVAC Trade Partners for your consideration!
4. Get your Roof Inspected!
It’s crucial to inspect your roof before winter arrives. Heavy snowfall and freezing temperatures can exacerbate existing issues, leading to leaks and costly repairs. A thorough inspection ensures your roof is ready to withstand winter’s harsh conditions, helping you avoid unexpected problems. Don’t wait until it’s too late.
(GOOD NEWS – We got you covered here! Sign up below for a Fall Roof Estimate, which includes a FREE 21 Point Roof Condition Report! ($350.00 Value)
5.Reseal Exterior and Check Your Windows
As temperatures drop, gaps and cracks in your home can let in drafts, moisture, and cold air, leading to increased heating costs and potential water damage. Fresh caulking ensures a tight seal against the elements, helping to maintain energy efficiency and protect your home from winter’s harsh conditions. Quick Tip: Fill really large cracks with foam cabling/caulk saver before adding caulk to save yourself some money.
The Department of Energy estimates that 30 percent of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. If your home has old, single-pane windows, you will likely want to upgrade to energy-efficient double- or triple-pane windows at some point. If you’re a renter or if new windows just aren’t in the budget right now, you can block drafts in an afternoon with Frost King Window Kits and reduce heat loss by as much as 35 percent.
6. Blow Out Sprinklers
As temperatures drop, any remaining water in the system can freeze, expand, and crack pipes or sprinkler heads. By clearing out the water, you protect your irrigation system from winter weather and ensure it’s ready to go when spring arrives. We have a list of great Sprinkler companies to help get this done and done correctly.
7. Change Filters
Also, when preparing your heater, be sure to change the filter. A clean filter ensures that air flows freely through your system, improving heating efficiency and helping to prevent strain on the unit. Dirty filters can lead to reduced airflow, higher energy bills, and even system malfunctions. If you are unsure how to do this or need assistance , scroll back up to our preferred HVAC vendors.
8. Maintain Your Fireplace
If you have a fireplace (either a wood or pellet stove), have it cleaned and inspected before lighting the first fire of the season. Only burn seasoned firewood to avoid creosote buildup, and install airtight glass doors to prevent heat loss when the fireplace is not in use.
Preparing your home for winter saves you money and keeps your home safe and comfortable when the weather gets wicked—and if you cross these eight things off your to-do list, you’ll be ready to handle whatever challenges that winter brings your way.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this blog post is for educational and informational purposes only. Home and Property owners should always consider safety precautions before starting any home improvement project. While we strive to offer accurate and helpful advice, Glacier Roofing & Exteriors does not assume responsibility for any actions taken based on the information provided or for any consequences resulting therefrom.
