Winter is Coming: Is Your Home Ready?
Maybe you spent the summer working on home renovations. If not, review our winter preparation checklist.
WINDOWS
Check your windows and frames for any drafts, broken pains, or warping. Your home loses up to 30% of its heat through leaks around windows. So if you want to keep your family comfortable and control your heating costs this winter, checking, sealing, or replacing your windows is a critical investment.
ROOF
The average asphalt shingle roof lasts around 20 years. So depending on the age of your roof, you might be okay. However, if your roof is getting older and has weathered several Northern Virginia winters, you might want to have a professional come by to check your roof for damage and leaks now. It’s much easier to repair roofs when they’re not covered in ice and snow. Also, repairs now can prevent leaks and water damage later.
GUTTERS
While you’re checking your roof, take a look at your gutters. Make sure they’re clean and clear of debris that could dam water and cause problems in the winter. When your gutters back up, water can overflow and run down your home, damaging your siding and your foundation.
You should also walk around your house and make sure the soil around your home hasn’t settled and created an area for water to pool.
DOORS
Like windows, leaky doors can let your warm air escape, making your family cold and your gas bills high. Check the seals on your doors. You can add weather stripping or even replace your door. An added benefit of replacing your doors is increased security. New front doors also improve the curb appeal and resale value of your home.
SIDING AND TRIM
Examine your siding and trim for signs of damage. In addition to keeping your home looking beautiful, siding also protects the structure from the elements. Any missing or broken pieces can allow water to seep in and cause more troublesome damage.
If you have wood trim, you need to protect it from the elements with a high-quality sealant. While the Trusted Vets can replace your trim, you can extend its life with annual maintenance.
And while you’re weatherproofing your trim, don’t forget to clean and seal your deck or any other exterior wood.
DRIVEWAYS AND SIDEWALKS
Take a look at your driveway and sidewalks. If you see any cracks or if you have uneven slabs of pavement, you should definitely address these issues before the rain, snow, and ice arrive. Not only can the cycle of freezing and melting make cracks worse, but they also create a tripping hazard.
CHIMNEY AND FIREPLACE
You should have your fireplace cleaned and inspected annually. A good chimney sweep service can clean your chimney, identify any maintenance needs, and ensure it’s safe for your family and your home. While you’re at it, order your firewood and make sure you store it in a good location with a protective covering to prevent it from rotting.
HVAC
HVAC units are sometimes fickle, lasting anywhere from 10-20 years. But a universally known truth is that maintenance extends an HVAC’s life. Even if you’ve been running your AC all summer without problems, if you haven’t had an inspection in the last year, schedule one now.
If you find any issues in your home that need professional attention, such as damage to your roof, siding, windows, or doors, call the Trusted Vets. With years of home restoration experience, the team provides accurate estimates and reliable, high-quality products and services.
