Fall is finally here and cold weather is on its way. November is a great month to prepare for the winter season. Properly maintaining your home and tools during the winter months not only helps you save on your utility bills but will also protect the investment that you made in your house.
Your homeowners insurance is there to protect you in your time of need, but even a small claim can result in a premium increase, which is another great reason to prepare your house for the coming winter months. Many of these steps are do-it-yourself, but some may require the expertise of a professional.
Here are a few things to look at protecting before the cold weather really sets in:
- Tune Up the Heating System - A furnace inspection and tune-up should run between $80-$150. A technician will give your entire heating system an inspection and make sure it is clean and in proper working order. They will also check for carbon monoxide leaks. If a problem is found, have it repaired immediately; a faulty furnace can result in a house fire.
- Inspect Your Roof - Your roof should be inspected at least once a year. Fall is one of the best times to do it. Inspect your roof from the ground with a pair of binoculars to check for any loose or missing shingles. Inspect flashing seals around any vents and the chimney. Before grabbing a ladder to climb on your roof, call a professional. A professional should inspect your roof once every 2-3 years or after a major storm to check for damage and possible leaks.
- Shut Off Exterior Faucets - Leaving un-drained water in a pipe can freeze which will lead to a burst pipe when the ice expands. This can result in an expensive repair if the water gets into the walls. Disconnect all garden hoses and allow the water to drain out of the faucet. This is also the time of year to blow out your sprinkler system. If you have a compressor this is something you can do yourself, otherwise, call in a pro.
Properly preparing your house for winter can help prevent accidents and keep your family and your home safe. Call us today so we can help make sure you’ve got the home coverage you need to stay safe this winter.