Winter Home Maintenance Tips for Spokane Homeowners
Winter in Spokane can bring cold temperatures, snow, and ice, making it essential to prepare your home for the season. Proper winter maintenance can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your home stays warm and safe. Here are some specific winter home maintenance tips for Spokane homeowners to keep your property in top shape.
1. Inspect Your Insulation
Proper insulation is crucial for maintaining a warm home and reducing heating costs during the winter months.
Tips:
Check Attic Insulation: Ensure your attic is well-insulated to prevent heat from escaping.
Wall Insulation: Inspect walls for adequate insulation, especially if your home is older.
Seal Gaps: Fill gaps around pipes, windows, and doors with spray foam or caulk to keep the cold out. Weatherstripping like the ones found here are affordable & very easy to install and.
2. Clean and Inspect Your Sump Pump
A functioning sump pump is essential for preventing basement flooding during winter thaws.
Tips:
Test the Pump: Pour water into the sump pit to ensure the pump activates and drains the water.
Clean the Pit: Remove any debris that could clog the pump.
Backup Power: Consider installing a battery backup system to ensure the pump works during power outages.
3. Protect Your Landscaping
Your outdoor plants and trees need protection from harsh winter conditions.
Tips:
Mulch Beds: Apply a layer of mulch to flower beds and around trees to insulate roots.
Wrap Young Trees: Use tree wrap or burlap to protect young trees from frost and wind.
Prune Shrubs: Prune shrubs and bushes to remove dead or damaged branches that could break under snow.
4. Check Exterior Paint and Siding
Inspecting and maintaining your home's exterior can prevent winter damage.
Tips:
Inspect Paint: Look for peeling or chipping paint and touch up as needed to protect wood surfaces.
Check Siding: Ensure siding is secure and repair any damaged sections to prevent moisture from seeping in.
Seal Cracks: Seal any cracks or gaps in the siding to keep out cold air and moisture. Use a product like this one.
5. Inspect and Maintain Your Water Heater
Your water heater works harder during the winter, so ensure it’s in good condition.
Tips:
Flush the Tank: Drain a few gallons from the tank to remove sediment buildup that can reduce efficiency.
Check the Anode Rod: Inspect the anode rod and replace it if it’s heavily corroded to extend the life of your water heater. Many options can be found on Amazon for an affordable fix.
Insulate the Tank: Add an insulating blanket to older water heaters to improve efficiency.
6. Inspect and Maintain Safety Devices
Safety devices are crucial for protecting your home and family during the winter months.
Tips:
Test Detectors: Check and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. I love buying a pack of these every year and keeping them around for the inevitable beeping at 3am.
Replace Units: Replace any units that are more than 10 years old.
Check Fire Extinguishers: Ensure fire extinguishers are fully charged and accessible. These portable ones are great for storing around thehome.
7. Winterize Outdoor Spaces
Preparing your outdoor areas can prevent damage and make winter maintenance easier.
Tips:
Store Furniture: Clean and store outdoor furniture, grills, and other items to protect them from the elements.
Drain Hoses: Disconnect and drain garden hoses, and store them indoors.
Cover Faucets: Use insulated covers to protect outdoor faucets from freezing.
8. Stock Up on Winter Supplies
Being prepared with the right supplies can make winter weather easier to manage.
Tips:
Ice Melt and Shovels: Stock up on ice melt and snow shovels to keep walkways clear. We get a bucket of Pet Safe Ice Melt every year.
Emergency Kit: Prepare an emergency kit with essentials like blankets, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food. Also important to keep an emergency winter road kit in your car!
Heating Supplies: Ensure you have plenty of firewood or fuel for your heating system.
Final Thoughts
Preparing your home for winter in Spokane involves a few essential maintenance tasks that can save you time, money, and hassle in the long run. By taking these steps, you’ll ensure your home is ready to withstand the colder months and keep your family warm and safe.
Need help with your winter maintenance checklist or thinking about buying or selling a home in Spokane? I’m here to assist you with all your real estate needs. Reach out for more information and expert advice. Stay warm and safe this winter season!
*Some links may include affiliate commissions