How to inspect the house before winter

When preparing for winter, it’s worth thinking not only about whether you have enough plaid and whether your heaters are working, but also whether your home and grounds are in tidy condition. Early fall is the perfect time to clean up, as the weather is still warm and there is still enough natural light for long street work. To make sure you don’t miss out on any winter preparations, make a checklist of chores around the house and assign people to take care of them:

Gutters inspection

As the seasons go by, your gutter can accumulate leaves, dirt, and debris and thus be prone to clogging. Gutter cleaning https://happywindowcleaners.ca/services/gutter-cleaning/ and inspection should be a top priority to ensure water can flow freely, preventing overflow and potential water damage to your foundation, siding, and roof. If gutters remain clogged, ice dams may form in the winter, which can lead to serious damage to both the roof and the interior of your home.

Roof inspection

Weather conditions are not that kind to any type of roof, so it is important to check in on its condition while cleaning. The summer heat, UV exposure, and any storm damage may have weakened roofing materials, making them more susceptible to leaks or structural damage during winter. Inspect for loose, cracked, or missing shingles, and check for any signs of water damage or mold.

Walls and exterior siding

Examine the walls for cracks, peeling paint, or signs of moisture damage and repair or repaint them if needed. Remove dirt and mold from the siding with power washing. The early damage inspection can prevent problems worsening at freezing temperatures, and power washing will also help preserve the integrity of the materials.

Checking out doors and windows.

Check for any gaps or cracks around the frames that could allow cold air drafts to enter your home. Sealing these gaps will improve your home’s energy efficiency and comfort, reducing heating costs.

Outdoor lighting inspection

Look at all the lighting features installed on your territory and replace any burnt-out bulbs or faulty fixtures. With shorter days and longer nights in the winter, ensuring proper outdoor illumination enhances both safety and security.

Remember that by cleaning and inspecting your home every fall, you prepare it to withstand the colder months, prevent damage, and maintain its structural integrity.

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