WINTERIZE YOUR OHIO HOME

Winterize Your Ohio Home: A Checklist from Your Local Home Inspectors

As the crisp autumn air begins to settle in Ohio, it’s time to prepare your home for the long, cold winter ahead. Winterizing your home not only ensures comfort but also helps prevent costly repairs. Here’s a comprehensive checklist from your local home inspection experts to help you get started:

Exterior Prep:

1. Roof Inspection: Schedule a professional roof inspection to identify any potential issues like missing shingles, leaks, or damage from recent storms.
2. Gutter Cleaning: Clear gutters and downspouts of leaves and debris to prevent water damage and ice dams.
3. Seal Cracks and Gaps: Caulk and weatherstrip around windows, doors, and other openings to reduce drafts.
4. Insulation Check: Ensure adequate insulation in your attic and walls to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature.
5. Inspect Siding: Check for any loose or damaged siding and repair or replace as needed.

Interior Maintenance:

1. Heating System Tune-up: Schedule a professional tune-up of your furnace or boiler to ensure it’s operating efficiently and safely.
2. Chimney Cleaning: If you have a fireplace, clean the chimney and flue to remove creosote buildup and prevent chimney fires.
3. Plumbing Protection: Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing, and let faucets drip slightly to avoid frozen pipes.
4. Appliance Check: Inspect appliancec zltgdb d td s like refrigerators, washing machines, and dryers for any signs of wear and tear.
5. Emergency Kit: Assemble an emergency kit with essential supplies like water, non-perishable food, flashlights, batteries, and a first-aid kit.

Additional Winter Tips:

* Water Heater Maintenance: Flush your water heater to remove sediment and ensure optimal performance.

* Fireplace Safety: Use a fireplace screen to prevent sparks and embers from escaping.

* Carbon Monoxide Detector: Test your carbon monoxide detector regularly and replace the batteries as needed.

* Winterize Outdoor Faucets: Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain them completely.

By following this checklist, you can significantly reduce the risk of winter-related problems and keep your home warm, cozy, and safe throughout the season. If you have any concerns or questions, don’t hesitate to contact your local home inspection company for professional advice and assistance.

Stay warm and safe this winter!

~ NATIONAL HOME INSPECTION SVC, INC.

      614-755-9922