Your favorite chair or spot on the couch. The worn-in coffee mug holding your seat at the table. Pictures of family and keepsakes lining walls and surrounding the space. Whether or not you realize it, these features create a feeling of warmth. A feeling of home. And when you are kicking the day’s work off with your shoes, this warmth is where you eagerly want to return. Your home, in essence, is a collection of comforts you’ve created over time. And naturally, there are things that need to happen to ensure a home’s longevity, particularly in the winter. With Kansas City’s colder temperatures and harsh weather conditions, it can be hard on your house, but winterizing can safeguard your home and protect the warmth you’ve created. It’s our business to care for you and your home, so here’s a quick checklist to help you winterize your home so you can preserve one of your most valued possessions.
Check the gutters
Gutters have a job to do: keep water away from your home. Clearing out all the debris and leaves that have collected keeps them working properly. Otherwise, snow and ice can get trapped and create dams which will not only jeopardize the effectiveness of your gutters, but also leave you at-risk for water damage to the interior and exterior of your home.
Seal the cracks
Unsealed cracks and gaps? Your hard-earned money could be seeping through, along with the warm air. Caulking holes and sealing any gaps will save you money now and in the future. Install weather stripping around windows, doors, and air conditioners for extra warmth reinforcement. If doors or windows need to be replaced, we have a wide selection and great options for every budget at www.lumberonekc.com, and can take care of installation as well.
Clear the pathways
Since home is your safe place, getting in and out of it should be safe too. Keeping your driveway and sidewalks clear of snow and ice will reduce the chance of injury due to falls. You will also want to fill in any cracks or holes as well as repair any issues with steps and handrails. The time spent on prevention is well worth the safety of your family and visitors.
Protect the pipes
The opposite of home warmth: frozen pipes. If not properly insulated, pipes can freeze in the wintertime causing you a major headache and major expense. If you are expecting a severe drop in temperature, leave a faucet dripping to keep the flow of water steady and avoid the complications of freezing pipes.
Service your furnace
Heat is obviously important to creating temperature warmth for your home, so maintaining your heating system is critical for maximum efficiency. Since regular house dust can accumulate in furnaces, boilers, and chimneys, servicing in the winter will help clear out any build up and keep them clean.
Contact Lumber One
You work hard. And your home gives you the reset you need to tackle each new day. Your home is worth caring for and protecting, so be sure to take steps to winterize it. As partners with you, we are here to help with any winter project – big or small. Give us a call at 913-583-9889.
