Winter is almost here, and we all know it can sometimes be tough. That’s why it’s super important to get yourself and your home ready for the cold days ahead. Here’s a quick checklist to help you prepare your home for winter.

First, think about all the leaves that fall during autumn. While we notice them on the ground, we often forget about the roof and gutters. Those leaves can clog the gutters, and when they freeze, they can damage your roof by getting under the shingles. Plus, frozen debris can fall and potentially harm your home or someone walking by. So, start by giving your gutters a good cleaning.

Keeping your home warm is crucial, but without proper insulation, it can be a losing battle. Consider installing spray foam insulation to protect and warm your home. A local professional can guide you on how to do this right. Don’t forget to insulate the roof and basement, too.

Also, think about insulating your pipes. When it gets cold, pipes can freeze and burst, leading to serious water damage. Insulating them can prevent this from happening.

If you have outdoor sprinklers, make sure to prepare them for winter. Remove any leftover water before the first freeze. If water is left inside, it can freeze, expand, and damage the system. You might want to hire an irrigation contractor to ensure there’s no water left in the system.

For those in super-cold areas, frozen door locks can be a hassle. To prevent this, spray some powdered graphite lubricant into the keyhole, insert the key, and turn it. This will lubricate the lock’s pins and prevent freezing. Doing this yearly can save you from the struggle of frozen locks.

Drafts are a leading cause of heat loss during winter. Inspect your windows and doors by lighting a candle near them. If the flame flickers, there’s a draft. Clean the areas and fill the gaps with paintable caulking to seal them. This can make your home more energy-efficient and draft-free.

Lastly, ensure your fireplace is clean and ready to use. This is especially important for wood-burning fireplaces because residue can be highly flammable. Hiring professionals to clean and service your fireplace, including a certified chimney sweep, can make sure everything is safe and ready for use.

With winter approaching, it’s vital to make sure your home is warm and cozy. This checklist should help you prepare so you can relax and enjoy the magical season ahead.