Home Maintenance and Repair During the Winter

As a homeowner, you understand that upkeep and fixes are part of having a house.

It is absolutely essential that you mend any broken items in your home, no matter how recently you bought it, and take preventive measures to ensure that nothing gets damaged in the first place.

Winter is an important season to do necessary home maintenance and repairs. Prior to the arrival of winter each year, you must complete multiple home upkeep activities. You should also complete various duties during the winter or over the course of the season to keep things in good condition.

In spite of having done careful upkeep, you could come across the fact that you will need assistance with house fixes during the winter season.

No one desires to stay outdoors in frigid temperatures to conduct home maintenance, particularly if the repairs fail to be successful.

Discover what actions you can take to keep your home in tip-top shape during the winter season. Discover when it is wise to enlist a professional to finish a task instead of doing it on your own.

1. Seal Windows and Doors

One of the initial, simple winter maintenance chores homeowners can do is to plug up any openings in windows and doors in order to stop cold air and energy from being lost. This is a job that you should expect to do annually; architecture changes over time, and new spaces will be created. As time goes on, the condition of windows will worsen and this can cause a lot of leakage.

In many instances, this task can be handled by you personally. It is possible to detect openings between the seals of windows and doors just with a visual inspection. Sometimes you can sense the presence of something because a chill breeze is detectable.

You can seal these openings with weatherstripping. This item is available in various materials and designs. Weatherstripping made of self-adhesive plastic, felt, or foam-tape is effortless to put in place, but its durability is relatively short. Weatherstripping produced from bronze, tubular rubber, vinyl, or silicone are capable of lasting up to 10 years, although installing them can be difficult.

If the task of installing weatherstripping appears daunting, you may decide to employ a Frisco handyman to do it instead. However, weatherstripping is typically quite straightforward to apply.

2. Clean and Repair Your Gutters

Typically, Texas has a fairly dry winter, yet when the fall brings rain, gutters become filled and are often jammed as the winter arrives. It is wise to inspect and clean the gutters multiple times annually, yet this is especially important to remember to do as winter approaches.

The blockage of gutters can lead to an overflow, resulting in possible rupture. In addition, any water that is left in your gutters during the winter season could turn into ice, which could result in major destruction.

Cleaning out the gutters is a job that a lot of people pay someone else to take care of, but you can do it yourself using a ladder and a small scoop. Once you have cleared away all the leaves, you can spray the gutters out with a hose.

You may be able to fix certain gutter damage yourself, but in many cases, the best outcome is achieved with the assistance of a professional.

3. Make Sure Your Heating System is Ready

Be prepared for when the cold temperatures come so you won’t be taken by surprise. Ensure that your heating system is prepared and able to begin functioning immediately.

The kind of heating system used in your home will dictate what sort of maintenance and preparation tasks you must carry out. Every three years, it is recommended to have a professional examine the gas heating system, and an annual maintenance visit can provide benefits to the boiler system. If you have a fireplace, it is essential to have the chimney serviced and inspected by a chimney sweep.

The above maintenance activities will not only guarantee that your home is warm and snug in winter, but they will also protect you and your family from the risk of fire. They will also assist you in maintaining your heating systems in optimal working condition and for an extended period of time. A new heating system can be very expensive. Although you might have to pay a large sum for keeping it up, it is much less than if you were to buy a brand new one.

4. Perform Roof Maintenance

Roof maintenance is a frequent and well-liked home improvement job that is generally undertaken in the autumn or early winter. Through the passing of time, your roof withstands a lot while it shelters your house from the sky. Periods of extreme sun, rain, wind, and frost, plus more, all contribute to wear and tear, and therefore it is important to inspect your property regularly to ensure it remains in perfect condition.

If you’re scared to ascend to your roof, you can enlist the services of a Frisco handyman to execute a roof upkeep inspection on your behalf. One can examine any loose shingles and ensure they are securely fastened. The handyman can also inspect the path of fluid movement to guarantee that water flows off the roof correctly.

5. Prepare Your Storm Resources

Ensure that you are ready for a storm before it arrives. It’s rare to encounter snowstorms in the Frisco region, and we are typically unharmed by hurricanes. When hurricanes occur in the gulf, we often receive copious amounts of rainfall, so it is best to be prepared for it. Winter temperatures that entail freezing rain and hail can lead to power outages as well as other issues.

It is prudent to examine your generator to confirm that it is operational before the start of winter. Ensure you have candles, torches, and an operational solar or battery operated radio at the ready.

Have a few containers of water and some food items at the ready in case of an emergency. It is probable that you won’t require any of these items, but when it comes to being ready in case of an unforeseen circumstance, it is preferable to be prepared than to regret not doing so.

6. Check Your Insulation

To reduce your heating costs, ensure that the insulation in your home is sufficient. Insulating your home will both help keep it warm during chilly months as well as keeping it cool in the warmer seasons.

Incorporating insulation is a relatively simple job, yet it can be a burden and troublesome to oversee. Having insulation installed or inspected by a home repair services provider is a worthwhile task.

7. Maintain Your Humidifier

In winter, Texas can become very parched, prompting numerous homeowners to install whole-house humidifiers in their residences. These can be immensely beneficial for maintaining a robust respiratory system and can help make wintertime more bearable.

In order for your humidifier to operate optimally, certain upkeep tasks need to be done. Ensure the drain pipe is unblocked and switch out the media panel when it becomes soiled. It is recommended that you give the fan a scrubbing twice yearly.

Other Seasonal Guide to Maintaining Your Home

Spring

At the end of a lengthy, chilly winter, we welcome the new beginnings of the spring season. Clean up the winter dirt, throw open the windows, and get your house ready for the summertime and outdoor cooking.

Inside:

• Conduct Annual Spring Cleaning. Be sure to tackle those areas that may have gone neglected—such as your blinds, baseboards and fan blades—as well as appliances, including your refrigerator, dishwasher, oven and range hood. Clear out clutter and clothes you no longer wear, and toss old and expired food and medications.
• Shut Down Heating System Depending. on the type of heating system you have, you may need to shut your system down when not in use. Check the manufacturer’s instructions for proper procedures.
• Tune Up A/C. If your home has central air conditioning, schedule an annual tune-up with your HVAC technician. If you have a portable or window unit, be sure to follow the manufacturer’s instructions for proper maintenance.
• Check Plumbing. It’s a good idea to periodically check your plumbing to spot any leaks or maintenance issues. Look for evidence of leaks—such as water stains on the ceiling—and check for dripping faucets or running toilets that need to be addressed. Inspect your hot water heater for sediment build up. Check your sump pump (if you have one) to ensure it’s working properly.
• Inspect Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors. Check that your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly. Batteries should be replaced every six months, so change them now and again in the fall. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to test your individual devices. And even properly functioning devices should be replaced at least every 10 years, or per the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Outside:

• Inspect Perimeter of Home. Walk around your house and look for any signs of damage or wear and tear that should be addressed. Are there cracks in the foundation? Peeling paint? Loose or missing roof shingles? Make a plan to make needed repairs yourself or hire a contractor.
• Clean Home’s Exterior. Wash windows and clean and replace screens if they were removed during the winter months. For the home’s facade, it’s generally advisable to use the gentlest method that is effective. A simple garden hose will work in most cases.
• Clean Gutters and Downspouts. Gutters and downspouts should be cleaned at least twice a year. Neglected gutters can cause water damage to a home, so make sure yours are clean and free of debris. If your gutters have screens, you may be able to decrease the frequency of cleanings, but they should still be checked periodically.
• Seed or Sod Lawn. If you have bare spots, spring is a good time to seed or lay new sod so you can enjoy a beautiful lawn throughout the remainder of the year. The peak summer heat can be too harsh for a new lawn. If you miss this window, early fall is another good time to plant.
• Fertilize Lawn. Depending on your grass type, an application of fertilizer in the spring may help promote new leaf and root growth, keep your lawn healthy, and reduce weeds.
• Tune Up Lawn Mower. Send your lawn mower out for a professional tune-up and to have the blades sharpened before the mowing season starts.
• Check the Deck. If you have a deck or patio, inspect it for signs of damage or deterioration that may have occurred over the winter. Then clean it thoroughly and apply a fresh coat of stain if needed.

Summer

Summer is usually a period devoted to leisure and comfort in the home, yet dedicating some time to upkeep will help keep it in top shape and running efficiently all throughout the season.

Inside:

• Adjust Ceiling Fans. Make sure they are set to run counter-clockwise in the summer to push air down and create a cooling breeze. Utilizing fans instead of your air conditioner, when possible, will help minimize your utility bills.
• Clean A/C Filters. Be sure to clean or replace your filters monthly, particularly if you’re running your air conditioner often.
• Clear Dryer Vent. Help cut down on summer utility bills by cleaning your laundry dryer vent at least once a year. Not only will it help cut down on drying times, a neglected dryer poses a serious fire hazard.
• Check Weather Stripping. If you’re running your air conditioner in the summer, you’ll want to keep the cold air inside and hot air outside. Check weather stripping around doors and windows to ensure a good seal.

Outside:

• Mow Lawn Regularly. Your lawn will probably need regular mowing in the summer. Adjust your mower height to the highest setting, as taller grass helps shade the soil to prevent drought and weeds.
• Exterminate Pests. Remove any standing water and piles of leaves and debris. Inspect your lawn and perimeter of your home for signs of an invasion. If necessary, call a professional exterminator for assistance.

Fall

Autumn brings another time of attending to house maintenance as you prepare your residence for the colder temperatures that are coming.

Inside:

• Have Heater Serviced. To ensure safety and efficiency, it’s a good idea to have your heating system serviced and inspected before you run it for the first time.
• Shut Down A/C for the Winter. If you have central air conditioning, you can have it serviced at the same time as your furnace. If you have a portable or window unit, ensure it’s properly sealed or remove it and store it for the winter.
• Inspect Chimney. Fire safety experts recommend that you have your chimney inspected annually and cleaned periodically. Complete this task before you start using your fireplace or furnace.
• Seal Windows and Doors. Check windows and doors for drafts and caulk or add weatherstripping where necessary.
• Check Smoke Alarm and Carbon Monoxide Detectors. If you checked your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in the spring, they are due for another inspection. Batteries should be replaced every six months, so it’s time to replace them again. Follow the manufacturer’s instructions to test your individual devices. And even properly functioning devices should be replaced at least every 10 years, or per the manufacturer’s recommendation.

Outside:

• Rake or Mow Leaves. Once the leaves start falling, it’s time to pull out your rake. A thick layer of leaves left on your grass can lead to an unhealthy lawn. Or, rather than raking, use a mulching mower to create a natural fertilizer for your lawn.
• Inspect Gutters and Roof. Inspect your gutters and downspouts and make needed repairs. Check the roof for any broken or loose tiles. Remove fallen leaves and debris.
• Shut Down Sprinkler System. If you have a sprinkler system, drain any remaining water and shut it down to prevent damage from freezing temperatures over the winter.
• Close Pool. If you have a pool, it’s time to clean and close it up before the winter.