How To Winterize Your Home in Detroit

As a cold weather set in and it’s time to prepare your home for winter in Detroit. Winterizing your home can help keep the heat bills, low, prevent costly damage and keep your family warm and safe. Here’s a simple step-by-step guide to help you winterize your home this season. 

Insulate your pipes 

Frozen pipes burst, causing serious damage to your home. To prevent this, make sure that you insulate any exposed pipes in any area areas like your basement, attic, or garage. You can use foam pipe insulation, which is a easy to install and affordable option. Also, let your faucet drip slightly during extreme cold to relieve pressure inside the pipes

Check your furnace 

Your furnace works hard during the winter month, it is important to make sure that you keep it in good condition. Change the filter if you haven’t already, and schedule a professional inspection to ensure it is running efficiently. A properly maintain furnace will keep your home warm and can prevent breakdowns during the coldest months.

Seal window windows and doors 

Call drafts can sneak into your home through gaps and around your windows and doors. Check for any gaps and use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them. If windows are old or damaged, consider adding plastic insulation film or even upgrading to energy efficient windows. This will help keep the warmth inside and reduce heating costs.

Inspect your roof 

Your roof is your Home‘s first line of defense against any winter harsh elements. Look for any missing or damaged shingles, and make sure that your gutters are clear of debris to prevent ice dams. If you’re unable or unsure about the condition of your roof it is best to hire a professional to inspect it .

Prepare your chimney and fireplace 

If you are planning to use your fireplace during the winter, make sure that you have it cleaned and inspected by a professional chimney week. This will prevent dangerous creosote buildup, and ensure that your fireplace is safe to use. Also, check the damper to make sure that it’s functioning properly.

Reverse the ceiling fans 

This is a simple tip that can make a big difference in how warm your house feels, set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise during the winter months. This will push warm air down in the room, making your space feel cozier without turning up the heat. 

Check insulation in your attic and crawlspace 

Proper insulation in your attic and crawlspace helps retain heat. If you find your attic is lacking insulation, consider adding more to keep your home warmer and reduce energy cost. Insulation is a key factor to keeping your home comfortable throughout the winter.

Store your outdoor equipment 

Before the snow starts to fall, store your outdoor items like hoses, garden tools, furniture. This prevents rusting and damage from the cold. Also cover your air conditioner to protect it from the winter weather. 

Test, smoke and carbon monoxide detectors 

Heating systems, fireplaces and space heaters compose a fire, hazard or release, dangerous carbon monoxide. Tested smoke and carbon monoxide detectors, and replaced the batteries if needed. It’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to these essential safety devices. 

Inspector maintain your snow removal tools 

If you have a snowblower, check it to make sure that it is working properly. If you use shovels, consider getting one with an ergonomic handle to make snow removal easier on your back. Stock up on ice melt, salt so that you are ready for the first snow.

Also, if you are a pet owner, you should look at cleaning up your yard of dog poop before the snow comes. 

Winterizing your home can save you from headaches and expensive repairs later on. With these simple steps, you’ll be ready to face the cold weather in Detroit and keep your home safe and comfortable.  

Need help winterizing your home  

Call a handyman in Detroit for a full winterization inspection today!