While some tasks might be obvious for getting your home winter-ready, there are a few commonly overlooked tasks that can make a big difference in keeping your home comfortable and energy-efficient throughout the colder months.
Adrian Goslett, Regional Director and CEO of RE/MAX of Southern Africa, says that by preparing your home ahead of time, not only will you be ensuring that your home stays warm, safe, and comfortable throughout the winter months, but you will also be safeguarding the resale value of your home by protecting it against damage and costly repair work.
RE/MAX of Southern Arica shares a list of the often-neglected tasks that can help ensure your home is prepared for whatever winter throws its way…
Ensure windows and doors are air-tight:
Check for any gaps or cracks around windows and doors where cold air could seep in and warm air could escape. If you find any gaps, use weather stripping or caulking to seal them. For those with wooden window & door frames, now might be a good time to sand them down and give them a fresh coat of varnish.
Check for blockages in gutters and downspouts:
It's easy to forget about your gutters until they become clogged with leaves and debris. Be sure to clean them out before winter sets in and cut back any nearby trees and bushes to prevent future blockings. Now is also a good time to check that all downspouts are directing water away from your home's foundation to prevent water build up and damage. If necessary, add extra weeping holes to paved areas to make sure any rainwater has space to drain.
Prepare your swimming pool:
Before putting on the pool cover and forgetting about it until summer, make sure all debris is swept from the pool and that you have checked the pH balance to make sure everything is aligned. Ensure that the pool pump is properly protected against the elements and is in perfect working order. It is also a good idea to speak to your local pool experts for more tips on how to keep your pool in good condition during the winter months.
Prepare your indoor fireplace:
If you have an indoor fireplace or wood stove that hasn’t been used for a while, now is the time to make sure it's clean and in good working order. Have your chimney swept to remove a buildup of creosote and any other debris. Light a test fire to make sure it is still in good working order and stock up on firewood so you're ready for cosy nights by the fire.
“Don't wait until the last minute – start preparing your home for winter now, so you can relax and enjoy the season knowing your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature has in store,” says Goslett.
Fireplace safety tips from TheSpruce
- Wear protective gear, such as eye protection and a face mask when cleaning your fireplace.
- Keep an eye on how close you place rugs, chairs, curtains, and toys from the fireplace. These items are not fireproof and need to be kept a safe distance away from the hearth. Non-flammable hearth rugs are sold at fireplace supply retailers.
- Always test how your fireplace functions after it is cleaned or repaired. Do so by lighting a small log to see if the smoke is directed up the flue. Smoke should never come into the room.
- Stop dangerous embers from escaping by installing a blower with a fireplace-rated glass door, which will also aid with heat circulation.
- Never leave your home, go to sleep, or otherwise leave a fire or any embers in the fireplace unattended. It is critical to always put active fires out responsibly.
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