Home Tips for Winter

Preparing for winter is an essential part of keeping your investments in good working order and preventing little issues from becoming big issues. Here are some tips we suggest to help get you winter ready:

1. Remove Garden Hoses

   
   

   It is crucial to remove garden hoses from spigots before the onset of winter. Leaving a garden hose connected to a spigot can lead to significant issues due to the water that remains trapped inside the hose. When temperatures drop and the water within the hose freezes, it expands. This expansion can exert immense pressure on the spigot, the hose itself, and potentially the plumbing connected to it. As a result, the spigot may crack or rupture, leading to a costly repair.

   
   

   Furthermore, the implications extend beyond just the hose and spigot. In some unfortunate scenarios, the pipe that runs behind the spigot may also be affected. If this pipe bursts, it could lead to a catastrophic situation where large amounts of water are released into your home. This can cause extensive water damage, affecting walls, floors, and potentially leading to mold growth if not addressed quickly.

2. Cover Your Spigots

If you haven't yet purchased covers, safeguarding your spigots can prevent those undesirable pipe freezes. It's cost-effective and will be highly beneficial.

3. Clean Attic Vents

Inadequate attic ventilation can lead to ice during winter and raise heating expenses and promote mold growth. Over time, the vents in your soffits and on some end walls become clogged with dust and debris, reducing their efficiency. Use a leaf blower or compressed air to clean them.

4. Have Your Chimney Cleaned

This is the ideal time of year to clean your chimney in preparation for cozy fires. Removing creosote buildup is crucial to prevent potential fire hazards.

5. Check Your Windows

As you clean your windows for the winter season, carefully inspect them for any cracks in the surrounding trim, the glass, or any missing or damaged caulking. You can easily apply new caulking to replace any that is missing or deteriorated. If you discover any cracks or notice that the windows aren't sealing properly, Elements can conduct an inspection for you and offer repair recommendations.

Preparing your home for winter can be a do-it-yourself task. If you choose to winterize your home on your own, make sure to give yourself ample time before the cold sets in. Should you encounter any problems that might be a problem to your property, feel free to contact us at Elements Construction at (503) 871-1248. We are here to assist you in getting ready and resolving any issues you might find.