Preparing Your Home For Wintertime
Summer is coming to an end, and that means that it is time to start preparing. For those who own log homes, it is essential to prepare the house for the winter season. Let’s take a look at some of the steps to take to winterize a log home.
Perform A Full Visual Inspection
The first step should be a full visual inspection of the home. Start by walking around the inside of the house, look over walls, floors, ceilings, doors, and windows. Note any cracks, broken seals, or other problems. It helps to carry a notepad to write down the exact location of any faults. A small crack or a broken seal is easy to forget.
After going around the inside, it is time to walk the outside. Take the same notes. Check the foundation and walls on the outside. Also, check the roof and gutters. If the gutters are full of debris, it is vital to have them cleaned out before winter.
Take Care Of Plumbing
Know where the water main shut-off valve is should there be an emergency. Check the main valve and ensure that there is no damage to the control. Have a shut-off tool and know how to use it. Pipe related issues are common in the winter.
Disconnect the exterior hoses and drain them. It is best to store them in an interior location, even a shed, instead of leaving them coiled outside during the winter. Any pipes that are outside or exposed should be insulated to prevent freezing. Hose connections can be covered with an insulated cover.
Air conditioners should be shut off, and their water supply either shut-off or disconnected. Drain the air conditioner’s hose, water supply, and any standing water in the machine.
Check Your Landscaping
The log cabin isn’t the only thing at risk during the winter. Storms can send landscaping buffeting around the yard and into your home or other landscaping. Trim trees to remove branches that will easily break or are too close to windows and powerlines. If any trees are dead or at risk of falling over, it is time to look at removing them.
Prepare the Fireplace
Almost everyone who lives in a log home uses their fireplace. It is an easy and affordable way to keep the house warm. Over the summer and from past use, the chimney builds up soot and debris. Cleaning the chimney is essential before every winter. A clean and cleared chimney prevents smoke build-up, keeps animals out, and ensures proper function. Don’t forget to prepare enough firewood and set a schedule to keep your supply full.
Taking care of any discovered issues is an essential final step. Before the winter comes, make any repairs or changes needed. Starting these chores in autumn will allow the time to make sure they are correctly done. Having additional time always helps when unexpected problems arise.
Respect the Elements
Don’t try to be strong and fight the winter under-prepared, it’s just not worth it. When it comes down to it you either prepare well or you don’t, there is no in-between on this.
For more recommendations on how to winterize your log home, contact Quality Log Home Builders at 919-202-4428.