11/29/2023
5 Easy ways to get your house ready for Winter, even in Alabama
Tip 1: Check Your Windows and Doors for Air Leaks
Air leaks can cause cold drafts in the home, leading to higher energy bills. Inspect windows and doors for gaps or cracks, then use weatherstripping or caulk to seal them. Adding insulation around windows and doors to prevent heat loss also helps.
Tip 2: Clean or Replace Your Chimney
Wood-burning fireplaces should have their chimneys inspected at least once every two years. Make sure to clean out any creosote buildup, as it could cause a chimney fire if left unchecked. If the flue is damaged, replace it immediately. Not too many Chimney Sweeps around, so may take a little looking.
Tip 3: Inspect Your Roof
Before the heavy freezing winter rain/sleet, or snow in the northern part of the state, starts piling up, check your roof for missing or damaged shingles. Small issues can quickly become big ones if left unchecked during the winter months when melting sleet or snow can find its way into those tiny cracks or holes and cause further damage inside your home. (yes, even in South Alabama we get snow about once every 10 years.... usually melts after the sun hits it for a few hours)
Tip 4: Drain Outdoor Faucets/Hoses
Make sure all outdoor faucets are drained of water before temperatures drop too low in your area. If a hose is connected to an outdoor faucet, disconnect it before draining the faucet itself so that no water remains trapped in the hose where it could freeze and burst open with force – causing even more damage to both the hose and faucet!
Tip 5: Clear Gutters & Downspouts
Clogged gutters can cause serious problems if not taken care of properly during the winter when snowfall is heavier than usual. Clear out any leaves or debris that’s built up in your gutters before heavy snowfall begins – this will help ensure that melted snow (see #2) has somewhere to go instead of pooling on top of your roof!
