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Are You And your home Prepared For Winter?
Frosty winter days are fantastic for sipping hot chocolate by a warm fire place- not for repairing burst water pipes. Before winter kicks into full gear, help in keeping winter weather from causing damage to your house by preparing for the cold months ahead. These tips can help eliminate some of the problems that winter weather could cause to your home. A little preparation now could save lots of time and money later.
Winterize your home
*Stop water pipes from cracking and spilling gallons of water all over your home by draining your outdoor hose bibs, and by keeping your heat on even if you're away from home.
*Keep temperature in the home at least sixty five degrees. Otherwise your pipes could freeze, causing all sorts of other issues. A temperature lower than 65 degrees may not keep the pipes from freezing.
*If you have older windows consider upgrading to more energy efficient ones. New windows add to the value of your place and generally pay for themselves over time by reducing energy costs. At a minimum winterize your old windows by caulking openings, adding weather stripping, and installing storm windows.
*It is a fantastic idea to have your heating ducts cleaned each 5 years.
*Inspect the roof area to make sure it's intact-no loose shingles. Also, clean gutters and trim overhanging tree limbs.
Test your heating system and fireplace.
*Make sure your furnace is in good working order and clean your chimney and hearth.
*Be sure the furnace filter is clean, and replace it if it's not.
*Take a look at the thermostat and pilot light to be sure they are working properly.
Look for structural damage.
*Have a professional take a look at your house for structural damage. Bitter cold weather conditions can frequently turn your place's minor problems into major issues in winter months.
*If you've got a basement consider purchasing a sump pump. If the snow softens quickly in the spring it would help to stop flooding. Basic home insurance plans don't offer flood insurance.
Re-evaluate your home Insurance.
Four things are covered with basic home insurance : the structure of your home, your personal possessions, liability and daily costs. To what degree you are covered is dependent on the type of plan you have and how much insurance you purchase. Look at your home insurance policy now and make sure you have enough coverage. Spending a touch more on home insurance could actually save you money if any winter-related damages occur.