Winter is fast approaching, and the Farmer’s Almanac has predicted some snowfall will hit Texas again this year. Whether you believe the predictions or not, we believe it’s better to be safe than sorry when it comes to winter damage. Here are some tips to help you make sure your home is ready for winter.
Preparing the Outside of Your Home
Leaving leaves buried beneath the snow will create a soggy mess to deal with when the frost melts. Not only does tidying up the yard prepare your home for winter; it will also prepare your home for the coming spring.
Make a checklist for the family to go over. Work as a team to make sure you’ve done the following:
- Put away outside tools and items. Cover outdoor furniture and put large toys or equipment into storage where they will be protected from the elements.
- Rake and clean leaves from the yard and gutters. Clear the debris from gutters to prevent water from freezing and seeping into the home.
- Patch up the little leaks. Enough small cracks can cause cold air to seep into the house.
- Secure, drain and wrap the pipes. Drain the sprinklers, put away the garden hoses, cover the faucets and wrap up any exterior pipes with insulation covers. When water freezes into ice, it can expand and cause these pipes to burst. Take the time to prevent this costly winter damage from happening to you.
Preparing the Inside of Your Home
Energy costs are a serious concern when it comes to chilly winter temperatures. But you don’t have to choose between staying warm and keeping your energy bill low. Remember to do the following:
- Seal any leaks. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends using caulk and weatherstrips to seal spots that leak air. This includes doors, windows, exterior pipes that come into the house, and fireplaces.
- Check your insulation. Proper insulation should allow warm air to flow consistently throughout the home while reducing the amount of energy needed to keep your family toasty.
- Service your furnace and chimney. Inspect both and keep them clean to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning in your home. This is also the perfect time to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are still working.
Does Your Insurance Cover Winter Damage?
Winter doesn’t have to be daunting, but nature can always throw curveballs when we least expect it. Just in case, we recommend checking your homeowner’s insurance policy for weather coverage. Curious about homeowner’s insurance and winter protection? Please let Texan Insurance help you and contact us for more information.