Winter Ready Checklist

Getting the exterior of your S W Wold home ready for the cold winds, snow and ice is critical for keeping the Winter cold out and keeping it warm and toasty inside. Being proactive in your winter preparations will help you see lower energy bills, increase it's energy efficiency, and make your property safer.

Doors and Windows

• Check and/or replace all the weatherstripping around windows and doors for leaks to prevent heat loss.
• Replace all screen doors and windows with storm  glass.
• Repair or replace framing to maintain structural integrity.
• Caulking drafts around doors inside and out, where necessary, to keep heat from escaping.
• Inspect windows for cracks, broken glass, or gaps. Repair or replace, if needed.

 Lawn and Garden

• Trim overgrown branches back from the house avoiding property damage or a power problem.
• Aerate the lawn, reseed, and apply a winterizing fertilizer.
• Ensure rain or snow drains away from the house.
• Remove any attached hoses and store them away for the winter to prevent cracks,.
• Shut off exterior faucets. Drain water from outdoor pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads.
• Clean leaves, dirt, and pine needles between the boards of wooden decks to thwart mold and mildew growth.
• Check handrails on exterior stairs to make sure they’re well secured. 

AC and Heating

• Inspect the firebox and flue system to ensure that they’re clean of any soot or creosote and that there aren’t any cracks or voids that could cause a fire hazard.
• Check fireplace for drafts. 
• Clean or replace the air filter in your furnace for maximum efficiency and improved indoor air quality.
• Clean your house humidifier and replace the evaporator pad.
• Replace smoke alarm and carbon monoxide detector batteries.
• Remove air conditioners from windows or cover them with insulated liners, to prevent drafts.
• S W Wold recommends that you replace outdated thermostats to help cut down on energy costs .
• Make sure fans are switched to the reverse or clockwise position, which will blow warm air down to the floor for enhanced energy efficiency and comfort.

Roof Check

• Check for missing or damaged shingles and replace. S W Wold highly recommends this necessary step before you get stuck with a leak.
• Check for deteriorated flashing at the chimney, walls, and skylights and around vent pipes. Seal joints where water could get in. S W Wold recommends using roofing cement and a caulking gun.
• Check the gutters and downspouts for proper fastening, and re-secure if loose.
• Clean gutters of any debris. 
• Make sure downspouts extend away from the house by at least 5 feet to prevent flooding of the foundation and water damage from snow melting.
• Ensure all vents and openings are covered.

This is a basic and common household checklist from S W Wold to help ensure you are Winter Ready! Need help or have questions? Reach out to us on Facebook or Instagram.