Preparing your home for harsher temperatures is key to staying safe and comfortable throughout the season. The elements can affect different areas of the home, so taking a few preventive steps with the right building materials will prevent property damage. Here are a few ways to prepare yourself for the lower temperatures to come.

How to Prepare Your Home for Harsher Winter Weather

1. Check the Gutters

The gutters protect your home from the elements by directing rainwater away from the roof. With time, they become clogged with leaves, dirt, and debris, which prevents them from doing their job effectively.

To prepare for rain and melted snow, clean the system. Take note of any damage to the gutters, including leaks and corrosion. If sections are damaged or rusted, they may sag with the added weight of snowfall. Closing any gaps with sealant from a building materials supplier will restore its function.

2. Ensure Heating System Efficiency

Make sure that the HVAC system is in good shape. Replace the furnace filter if it’s clogged. You can also reapply insulation to optimize your home’s energy efficiency before it gets especially cold.

If you have a chimney, have a contractor check it before using your fireplace. It might need cleaning to ensure proper ventilation. 

3. Weatherproof Outdoor Fixtures

Freezing temperatures and snow can cause broken pipes and moisture intrusion.

Use caulking and weatherstripping to seal any gaps around doors and windows throughout the house. Wrap outdoor plumbing pipes to create insulating barriers that minimize the chances of freezing and leaking.
 

Homeowners throughout Willamette Valley and the Pacific Northwest find all of the cold-weather supplies they need at Freres Building Supply in Stayton, OR. The company stocks a wide selection of building materials, hardware, and insulation that will help improve your home’s condition just in time for mid- and late-season winter. Visit them online to find out more about their offerings, or call (503) 769-2879 to ask about their stock.