Gilbert’s Guide to Winter Home Prep

The last thing you want to be doing is cleaning out your gutters when it’s 20 degrees outside and snowing, which is why now is the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead! This winter home preparation checklist has tips to make your home more energy efficient while also getting it ready for winter snow, ice and wind.

Reverse Your Ceiling Fans

You may only think of your fans when you’re trying to stay cool in the summer, but did you know you can reverse your fan to spin clockwise to actually make your home feel warmer? Changing the direction of your ceiling fans circulates hot air trapped near the ceiling back into your living space.

Clean Out Your Gutters

While you’ve been busy soaking up the sun — leaves and debris have been collecting in your gutters. If not cleared, your gutters will clog. This not only prevents proper drainage, it can also increase your risk of forming an ice dam.

Keep the Cold Out

To keep the heat in and the cold out, it’s important to seal cracks. Caulking windows and doors can eliminate gaps and help keep heat inside your home. Door sweeps and window coverings can also help insulate your home.

Take Care of The Trees

During a winter weather storm, trees can pose as a serious hazard to your home and power lines. You may need to hire an arborist to remove or trim limbs close to your home or power lines that could cause problems.

Call a Chimney Sweep

Before you roast chestnuts on an open fire, make sure your fireplace and chimney are clean and in good repair. A licensed and insured chimney sweep can inspect and clean your fireplace and determine that it is safe to use.

Winter will be here before you know it — now is the time to prepare your home for the cold. We hope this checklist helps you prepare so you can enjoy the colder months ahead. If you have more questions, don’t hesitate to reach out! Give us a call at (781) 942-2225 to speak to a Gilbert Insurance agent today.