14 Jan It’s Never Too Late to Winterize Your Home
It’s January! Hopefully, you’ve already winterized your home. But if you haven’t, better late than never! Northern Virginia winters bring fluctuating temperatures that could cause damage to a home. Below are a few easy DIY tips you can do yourself to protect your home this winter.
1. HVAC Check: Your home’s HVAC system should be regularly checked and maintained by HVAC professionals, ideally in the spring and fall. However, it’s never too late to get someone in to do some regular maintenance of your HVAC system. That typically involves cleaning or replacing filters, cleaning the blower’s blades, and repairing any leaks found around air ducts. In the long run, regular maintenance can save you a lot of money and keep your unit running efficiently.
2. Winterize plumbing: Outdoor plumbing should be winterized before the first hard freeze to avoid a burst pipe. If you haven’t done that yet, we recommend prioritizing it. It’s an easy job! Just disconnect garden hoses, drain and turn off any outdoor faucets. Exposed outdoor pipes should be wrapped or insulated to keep from freezing exposure.
3. Weatherstripping: Check windows and doors to confirm that weatherstripping and caulk are in good condition. Check for any drafts. If you prefer, we can caulk and repaint window and door trims. Just call us for an appointment.
4. Pruning: Winter storms could cause dead branches to break and cause building damage or even injury to someone. Prune branches that might pose a threat to your home or walkways. For high or hard-to-reach branches, it’s best to hire a professional company.
6. Gutters: Check your gutters for clogs due to debris. Clogged gutters can create drainage issues and even freeze up in winter, causing expansion and damage to the gutters.
7. Siding and shingles: Check your home’s exteriors for visible cracks or other damage at least once a year. Minor repairs are likely a DIY job but leave anything more involved for the pros. If you decide to tackle a repair, be sure to use the correct caulking and materials.
If you need help with some of your home repair jobs, contact us at Home Works Painting in Northern Virginia. We might be able to help! You can read more about our services and call us to set up an appointment.
Mike Katounas is the owner of Home Works Painting, a painting business in Northern Virginia. He has over 15 years of experience in residential interior and exterior painting, drywall installation/repair, carpentry, wallpaper removal, power washing, commercial painting, color consultation, and staining/sealing. Their service areas include Chantilly, Fairfax, Herndon, Oakton, Reston. Mike takes pride in his work, and he always follows a strict code of conduct that includes the use of quality paint, a clean workspace, and an honest, respectful approach to his customers.
Sorry, the comment form is closed at this time.