Ten tips to prepare the house for the winters

11/16/2021 (Permalink)

Blog summary: The SERVPRO blog recommends certain steps homeowners can take to be ready for the winter season.

Preparing a home for winters

Winter is coming. It is time for homeowners to prepare their homes for the upcoming winter and storm season to ensure a cozy and comfortable home. SERVPRO, a flood restoration service, shares some tips on preparing a home for the winters and unexpected storms.

1. Weatherstrip: Save energy by weather stripping the front door to prevent any heat loss and avoid escalated energy bills. A seal can be attached at the bottom of a door against the threshold to fill any gaps that can leak the heat. 

2. Insulate the pipes: All exposed pipes should be insulated and protected from freezing temperatures or they can burst and lead to serious water damage. 

3. Insulate the attic: At least six inches of good thermal attic insulation must be installed in the ceiling. The heat ducts must also be insulated as 25% of the heat can be lost before it reaches the vents.

4. Roof: Inspect the Roof, Gable Vents, Chimney, Dormers, and Gutters. Missing shingles, broken chimney bricks, or poor seals around the chimney must be replaced. The gable vents must be secure and intact to prevent animals from getting in. Gutters should be cleared of all debris such as dried leaves to prevent backup of snow and the formation of dangerous ice dams. 

5. Drain sprinklers: It is advisable to remove any residual water in the outdoor sprinkler system so the water does not freeze to then expand and crack the pipes. Hiring an irrigation contractor to blow out the water using compressed air is the most effective way to manage this.

6. HVAC: Before winter arrives is the best time to check the filters, sealants, and vent stacks for optimum functioning. Ideally, inspect the filter monthly, and replace it when it turns brown or black. The pleated version, which has more particle-trapping surface area than a flat filter, is very effective. A professional HVAC inspection and maintenance is the most convenient way to ensure the HVAC is in perfect condition when winters set in.  

7. Electricals: Check all the electrical points in the property for adequate covers and hangers. A certified and licensed electrician must be employed to make any repairs and updates.

8. Inspect trees: During a storm, dead or weak branches of a tree can fall to cause severe damage to property or lives. Homeowners must lookout for signs of dead branches such as dead leaves that remain attached after the rest of the tree has shed, many smooth areas that are missing bark, or spots where mushrooms have sprouted. Branches of trees can also rub against each other and cause damage. Homeowners can also call an arborist for an evaluation.

9. Foundation and landscaping: Review landscaping and the areas around the foundation to make sure the property is free of debris. Check seals and insulation around basement entrances and all windows. Any cracks must be repaired immediately.

10. Smart accessories: Investing in heavy fabric curtains can help lock in the heat at night. During the day the sunshine can naturally heat the house when the curtains are opened.

Why SERVPRO?

• SERVPRO uses state-of-the-art equipment to bring the damaged property back to its original state. SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County is constantly updating its fleet and equipment so clients in Southlake, Grapevine, Keller, or surrounding areas can quickly access the services. 

• With over 1,700 US and Canadian Franchise locations, SERVPRO is strategically positioned to respond faster to an emergency of any magnitude.

• The SERVPRO staff is highly trained in property damage restoration. They receive initial in-house training and constant skill up-gradation at the corporate training facility and also acquire the regular IICRC-industry certification.

For storm damage restoration services, call SERVPRO of Grapevine/NE Tarrant County today at (817) 595-2506 or e-mail at office@SERVPROheb.com