When winter temperatures drop, they can take a toll on your
home if you’re not properly prepared. Ice, snow, and freezing temperatures can
cause issues like burst pipes, roof leaks, and high energy bills. With a bit of
planning and preventative care, you can safeguard your home against the
harshest winter conditions. In this guide, we’ll share practical tips to help
you keep your home warm, safe, and damage-free. We'll also share advice on
plumbing services to prevent frozen pipes, and the importance of roof flashing
in avoiding ice and water damage.
Insulate Your Home
Seal Cracks and Gaps
Cold drafts can sneak into your home through tiny cracks and
gaps around windows, doors, and foundations. Use weatherstripping or caulk to
seal these areas, keeping the cold air out and warm air in. Pay special attention
to older homes, where wear and tear could have created additional gaps over
time.
Enhance Insulation in Key Areas
Proper insulation is your home’s primary defense against
freezing temperatures. Make sure your attic, walls, and crawl spaces are
adequately insulated. The attic, in particular, plays a critical role—without
proper insulation, heat can escape through the roof, causing higher energy
bills and the potential for ice dams to form.
Use Heavy Curtains or Draft Stoppers
If you have drafty windows, consider using thermal or heavy
curtains to help insulate your home further. Draft stoppers placed at the base
of doors can prevent icy air from seeping in through gaps, keeping rooms warmer
and cozier.
Maintain Your Plumbing System
Why Frozen Pipes Are a Big Problem
When water inside pipes freezes, it expands, which can lead
to burst pipes and costly water damage. This is especially concerning for pipes
running through unheated spaces like basements, attics, or garages.
Steps to Prevent Frozen Pipes
- Keep Your Pipes Warm: Insulate exposed pipes using foam pipe
covers or heat tape to minimize their exposure to cold air.
- Allow a Trickle of Water: On extremely cold nights, letting
a small trickle of water run through faucets can keep water moving, reducing the
chance of freezing. Focus on faucets connected to pipes that are most
vulnerable to freezing.
- Open Cabinet Doors: Open the cabinets beneath sinks to allow
warm air to circulate the pipes. This can be especially helpful for
plumbing located along exterior walls.
The Role of Plumbing Services
Professional plumbing services like D'Angelos Plumbing and Heating can be invaluable in winterizing your home. Plumbers can inspect
pipes for vulnerabilities, add insulation where needed, and advise on long-term
solutions for preventing freeze damage. They can also provide emergency support
if a pipe bursts despite your best efforts. Investing in plumbing services not
only protects your home from cold-weather disasters but also saves you money
by preventing expensive repairs in the future.
Prepare Your Home’s Exterior
Inspect and Maintain Roof Flashing
Roof flashing is a key component in protecting your home
from ice and water damage during freezing temperatures. Flashing prevents water
from seeping into your home’s structure by directing it away from vulnerable
areas like chimneys, vents, and skylights. During winter, ice and snow can
build up on your roof, creating leaks. A well-maintained flashing system is
essential for keeping ice dams and freezing rain from compromising your roof’s
integrity. TRA Snow & Sun states,
“Having your roof properly flashed and ventilated beforehand can help prevent
these problems.”
How to Ensure Your Roof Flashing Is Reliable
- Inspect flashing for cracks, loose sections, or corrosion
before the cold sets in.
- Promptly replace any damaged flashing to ensure a secure and
watertight seal.
- Consider hiring a professional roofer for a thorough
inspection to identify issues you might miss.
Clear Snow and Ice from Your Roof
Heavy snow can weaken your roof’s structure, and melting snow
can refreeze at the edges, forming ice dams. Regularly clear snow using a roof
rake, but avoid climbing onto the roof yourself, as icy conditions can be
unsafe.
Protect Your Heating System
Furnace Maintenance
Your home’s heating system is your first line of defense
against freezing temps. Schedule an annual tune-up with a heating technician to
ensure your furnace or boiler runs efficiently. Replace air filters regularly,
as dirty filters can restrict airflow and overwork your system.
Fireplaces and Space Heaters
Fireplaces and portable space heaters can provide extra
warmth during frigid days, but use them carefully. Ensure your chimney is clean
and free of obstructions before lighting your first fire of the season, and
never leave space heaters unattended.
Programmable Thermostats
Installing a programmable thermostat can help you maintain a
consistent indoor temperature, reducing stress on your heating system and
keeping your home comfortable. Program it to lower the temperature when you’re
away, but stay warm enough to prevent pipes from freezing.
Safeguard Outdoor Areas
Disconnect and Drain Outdoor Hoses
Leaving hoses attached to outdoor faucets can cause water to
freeze and expand, potentially damaging both the faucets and the pipes leading
into your home. Disconnect all hoses before the first freeze and drain them
thoroughly.
Winterize Sprinkler Systems
If you have an irrigation system, winterize it by draining
excess water and shutting it down for the season. This prevents the pipes from
freezing and bursting under the soil.
Protect Outdoor Fixtures
Consider installing insulated faucet covers over outdoor
spigots to provide extra protection against freezing temperatures. These
inexpensive covers can offer peace of mind and an added layer of security for
your plumbing system.
Prepare for Emergencies
Stock Up on Supplies
Prepare for winter power outages by stocking up on essential
supplies like blankets, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food. Having
salt or sand spread on icy walkways can also reduce the risk of slips and
falls.
Know Your Shut-Off Valves
If a pipe freezes or bursts, knowing how to shut off the
water supply quickly can prevent further damage. Take time to locate and
familiarize yourself with your home’s water shut-off valves before the cold
sets in.
Create a Backup Heating Plan
A backup heating plan is crucial if your primary system
fails. Portable heaters, extra blankets, or even a wood-burning stove can help
keep your family safe and warm during an emergency.
Protecting your home from freezing temperatures doesn’t have
to be overwhelming. By taking proactive measures—such as insulating pipes,
maintaining roof flashing, and ensuring your heating system is in top shape—you
can enjoy the winter without worrying about costly damage to your home.
Partnering with trusted professionals like plumbers and roofers can add
security and expertise to your preparations. When you plan and address
potential vulnerabilities, you’ll create a warm haven that can stand up
to even the harshest winter storms.
