Have you started preparing your home for the winter yet? Here in the Boston area, we’ve already had a few snow storms, and it’s only going to get worse. Before you fall behind, make sure that you spend some time on the following activities so that you are ready for winter’s chill.
Empty Your Gutters
When the snow starts to stick, you don’t want to invite it to stay on your roof – this could cause the formation of ice dams and dangerous icicles. One way to prevent this is to clean out your rain gutters in the fall or early winter… before the snow starts to fall in earnest.
By spending part of an afternoon removing leaves and debris from your gutters, you can ensure that water and ice will drain away quickly, and not allow a buildup on your roof. If you hate cleaning your gutters, you can invest in gutter guards, or simply hire someone to do the job for you. Just make sure that they are careful. Cleaning the gutters is a dangerous job, and you don’t want to have to make a liability clam on your home insurance policy!
Trim Any Dangerous Branches
Here in Massachusetts, we seem to get at least one strong winter storm every year (remember the Nor’easter named Nemo from February of 2013?) In advance of a polar vortex or other blizzard, check the trees around your home. If you see any branches that could cause damage to your home or car, you should have them trimmed back. Also be on the lookout for branches that seem weak – they are more likely to fall and cause damage during heavy snowfall or high winds.
Check Your Winter Equipment
Again, now is the time to start preparing for the snow and frigid temperatures. This is especially true of all your winter equipment. Check the following equipment and gear to make sure that it is ready for use:
- Snow blower
- Shovels
- Driveway and sidewalk salt
- Car scrapers
If you find that anything needs fixing or replacing, now is the time to get that done! If you wait until you need it, you may find that stores have run out due to high demand.
Clean Your Chimney
Before you use your fireplace for the first time this winter, make sure that you have it professionally inspected and cleaned. Making sure that it is free of deposits or nesting animals will mean a lower risk of fire when it is in use, and lower your chance of puff-backs. If you do experience a fire or puff back (or if you just want some help cleaning your carpets) call our friends at ServiceMaster South Shore at 888-545-2700.
Home maintenance can be a bit of a pain, but the work that you do getting your home ready for winter will be well worth the effort. For more tips on how to stay safe and be efficient this winter, stay tuned to our blog, and remember to call 617-298-0655 for all of your insurance needs!
