Prepare yourselves—winter is coming. Game of Thrones references aside, the fall temperatures are upon us, which means the winter ones will soon be descending. There’s no need to go through any major renos or changes to get ready for the frigid months. Check out these 9, simple winter-proofing tips for your home:

Be sure to clean your gutters and downspouts a few times a year but especially before freezing temperatures hit. Ensuring water can flow properly through your house’s exterior drainage system is essential during the wet winter months. 

Shut off your outdoor water supply to help keep your pipes from bursting due to water expansion. It’s also a good idea to keep your hose somewhere warm.

Cover up or bring in your patio furniture and grill—aluminum furniture is especially vulnerable as it can rust quite quickly in cold and moist conditions. If you have a wooden deck, be sure to apply a fresh coat of sealer before the snow falls. You may also want to cover any firewood with a tarp to keep it from getting wet.

Hire a professional to check your insulation—especially in the ceilings where much heat can be lost. It’s always worth it have new insulation installed if it’s needed (you can also do this yourself if you’re up for the task).

To make sure your home is effectively blocking out the cold air, caulk any gaps in your windows or doors. Keep your windows tightly shut and locked throughout the winter months. If you notice a draft even when they’re closed, it may be time to upgrade. Trust me, the initial cost of changing your windows will be much less than constantly paying a higher heating bill over time.

Have a pro check your chimney for buildup and give it a clean if required. This is an essential winter-proofing task as it relates to fire safety.

Speaking of fire safety, it never hurts to test your smoke detectors and ensure they’re at an adequate battery level. And, don’t forget about your carbon monoxide detectors.

Install a programmable thermostat to help you save money and make your home more efficient. You can customize the temperature to suit your needs and a lot of the newer models come with an app for your mobile device so you can control the heat from anywhere.

Dust, dirt, and other debris can build up fast in your furnace filter. Be sure to check and change it if necessary to help maximize the lifespan of your heating and air-con system. It’s also always a great idea to have your HVAC checked by a pro before the coldest months hit.

If you need any other hot tips for the cold weather, I’m your gal! Get in touch anytime to talk winter-proofing, real estate, home décor, or whatever else you’d like to learn about.

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