Winter Preparation Check List

As the temperatures begin to drop you may be asking yourself, as a new or seasoned home owner, what are the things I need to remember to do to prepare my home for the colder weather. We've compiled a list of things to think about as you prepare your home for winter. Check Weather Stripping - Check the weather stripping around all doors and windows and replace as needed to prevent heat leaks. Storm Doors and Windows - Change out all screens for storm doors and windows also to help with energy efficiency. Trim Overhanging Branches - Examine branches that could be a nascence if iced over and trim away as needed. Put Away the Patio Furniture - It's a good time to clean, dry and store patio furniture and grills and bring out the fire pits. Store Planters and Pots - Clay pots are prone to cracking in colder weather. Clean them out and store them until spring. Winterize Outside Hose Bibs - This is the time to drain the water from the hoses and exterior bibs, remove hoses and put them away. Shut off any water to the outside hose bibs and leave the valves slightly open. Clean the Gutters - This is a good time to clean out leaves, pine needles and other debris from the gutters and get them ready for the winter. Standing water in your gutters can easily turn giant ice cube trays. Inspect De-icing Supplies - Make sure you have everything you need to deal with snow and ice. If you need to restock do so before the first storms hit. Check Smoke Detectors - It's always a good idea to check carbon dioxide and smoke detectors before the heat starts kicking in. Switch Ceiling Fans - By making sure your ceiling fans are spinning in reverse they will help pull the warm air down from the ceiling and more efficiently heat your rooms. Once you've gone through and double-checked this list you, or at least your home, should be ready for winter.