Preparing Your Home For Extreme Cold Weather

No matter what town you live in, it’s really important to get your home ready for seasonal weather changes.  Many area experience extreme cold weather during winter months, especially New England. Doing some basic upkeep can prevent extensive damage, save energy and keep you and your home comfortable.

Avoid Frozen Pipes. Water pipes burst in freezing cold temperatures causing in costly repairs. Disconnect or turn off water access to hoses from outside faucets, and turn off water in your home if you plan to be away for an extended period of time. Leaving a faucet slightly dripping can also help if your home is less insulated. 

Seal the Windows. Do you feel a draft by your windows? It’s probably because you have worn or cracked sealing around windows and doors? Sealing with caulk or weather stripping will prevent drafts and heat loss when outside temperatures drop. Be sure to be on the lookout for this throughout the winter, as really cold weather can shrink wood and cause gaps. Another option would be to have spray foam insulation or injection foam installed in your home by a local insulation contractor. This way you know it’s done right by a professional.

Clean the Gutters. Make sure that your gutters are not clogged with leaves and ice. Stagnant water can leak into the roofing, onto the ground and soak the foundation.  Gutter cleaning can be easy but failure to do so can result in very expensive damage. You may want to invest in a gutter cleaning profesional to routinely clean your gutters, especially if your house has multiple levels. 

Check the Roof. Have your roof inspected by a roofing contractor for loose or damaged shingles before extreme weather hits. The impact on your roof from cold nights then warmer days may cause shingles to shrink and expand causing cracking, tearing and separation. Along with ice build-up underneath, water can leak into your home and cause damage.

Home Energy Audit. Get a home energy audit to get a better understanding of the efficiency of your home. This may uncover areas that require additional insulation or appliances that need to be repaired or replaced. 

Extreme weather can happen anywhere and we know it happens routinely in New England! Keep your family safe and secure this winter easy home maintenance. If you would like to consult with a professional about the safety of your home call Anchor Home Inspection now to schedule a home inspection today.