Ann Smith
Broker


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519.697.3544
519.433.4331
1.866.851.1534
Fax: 519.433.6894
Email: ansmith@sympatico.ca

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7 Steps to Winterize Your Home

By Ann Smith, Broker

Cooler temperatures are upon us and soon the elements will attack your home with cold blasts and precipitation in the form of snow and frost. Just as you winterize your car for the months ahead, now is the time to look at winterizing your home.

For safety and cost savings, inspect these areas of your home:

1. Heat Sources

• Furnace – clean ducts, change filters, install a programmable thermostat.

• Fireplace and chimney – sweep yearly for soot and creosote build-up; install protective cap and screen to keep out birds/rodents and other obstructions; check mortar.

• Wood burning stove – clean often and watch for creosote buildup.

2. Smoke Alarms, Carbon Monoxide Detectors & Extinguishers

• Vacuum for dust and lint – prevent setting off alarm without cause.

• Replace batteries; check operation using real smoke.

• Smoke alarms – install one per floor, especially near bedrooms.

3. Outside Doors & Windows

• Windows – replace broken panes; seal cracks and entry points; add weather stripping and caulk windows; prime and paint exposed wood; consider plastic shields on exterior window wells; replace screens with storm windows; window insulator kits; plastic sheeting.

• Doors – caulk sills and add door sweeps.

• Check for leaks in both windows and doors by using incense smoke.

• Add outlet gaskets; confirm depth of ceiling insulation, which should be as deep as ceiling joists (10 to 11 inches).

4. Roof, Eaves & Downspouts

• Clean leaves from eaves to allow water flow and prevent ice build-up; consider installing leaf guards; ensure downspout carries water away from house and foundation.

• Look at attic for cracks/holes – add extra insulation.

• Check roof flashing to ensure water cannot enter house.

5. Inspect Foundation

• Use masonry sealer to fill cracks and prevent leaks – prevents freezing and thawing and keeps rodents out.

• Foundation cracks – mice only need a dime-sized space; cold air needs less space.

6. Pipe Freezes

• Wrap in pre-molded foam rubber sleeves or fiberglass insulation.

• Water main shut off valve.

• Drain air conditioning pipe and turn off water shut-off valve.

• Leave heat on in house to at least 55 degrees if you’re away for extended periods.

7. Snow Clearing Equipment & Supplies

• Snow Blower – tune up snow blower.

• Shovels – check shovels for handles strength – snow shovel and ice choppers.

• Obtain sidewalk ice-melt, sand or clay kitty litter.

By taking a few extra precautions before this season’s big chill you can be reassured that you’ll stay warm and dry all winter.
 

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Ann Smith, Broker
Your Real Estate Consultant…For Life!