Winter is almost here, and we know it can get pretty harsh sometimes. That’s why it’s super important to get yourself and your house ready for the cold days ahead. To make things easier, here’s a handy checklist to help you prepare your home for the upcoming winter.

First things first, think about all those leaves falling during autumn. They can clog up your gutters and even get under your roof shingles, causing damage when they freeze. Frozen debris can fall and hurt someone or damage the side of your house. So, start by thoroughly cleaning your gutters.

Keeping your home warm in winter can be tough without proper insulation. Consider installing spray foam insulation to keep your house cozy. Consult with a local professional to get it done correctly. Don’t forget to insulate your roof and basement too.

Insulating your pipes is also crucial. Frozen pipes can burst and cause serious water damage. So, take the time to insulate them before the cold really hits.

If you have outdoor sprinklers, prepare them for winter by removing leftover water before the first freeze. This can prevent the freeze from damaging your sprinkler system and pipes. You might want to hire an irrigation contractor to ensure everything is properly blown out.

In super-cold climates, frozen door locks can be a problem. To prevent this, spray some powdered graphite lubricant into the keyhole and then turn the key. This will keep the lock pins from freezing.

Drafts are big culprits of heat loss during winter. Check all your windows and doors by lighting a candle near them. If the flame flickers, there’s a draft. You can seal these drafts by cleaning the area and using caulking to fill any gaps.

Finally, ensure your fireplace is clean and ready. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, hire professionals to clean it properly and get a certified chimney sweep to check your chimney.

By following this checklist, you can make sure your home is ready for winter, allowing you to relax and enjoy the season.