Fall is officially here, and if you are from Northeast Ohio, you know that this year promises another harsh, “teeth-chattering” winter. With a short autumn season and a long winter just around the corner, there is just enough time to start preparing your home for the cold months ahead. It is a good idea to start prepping your home right now; you don’t want to be caught winter proofing your home when there is snow on the ground!

While it is still warm enough for cider and sweaters, here are a few quick tips for winter-proofing your home right now!

Goodbye Screens!

Screen windows and doors are lovely for enjoying springtime air or a warm breeze on a humid day, but you do not want to be caught with a flimsy door once freezing temperatures kick in! It is a good idea to replace your screen windows with an extra layer to keep the heat in. Not only will your home be warmer, but trapped moisture can also cause damage. When moisture, ice, or snow gets stuck behind a screen window or door, the trapped wet-stuff can cause damage to your door frames, entryways, window frames, and window sills.

Fireplace and Chimney

We know it’s not even Halloween, but now is the time to make sure your fireplace and chimney are ready for Santa’s arrival in December. If you have a fireplace in your home, only you can prevent a tragic accident. Before it is too windy or cold to have an inspection done, ensure your firebox and flue system are clear of any soot and that there are not cracks that could spark a fire. Curling up by the fire is a lovely way to spend a chilly evening, so please be safe about it!

Top to Bottom

Before the first snowfall, make sure to take a look at your roof and your basement for any signs of trouble. You do not want to find out you need these types of home repairs in the middle of a harsh storm. Take out a pair of binoculars to look for signs of wear-and-tear on your roof and spend a good half hour in your attic checking for any signs of leaking.

In your basement, it is a good idea to check for dampness and ensure that your sump pump and water heater are in excellent working condition. Also, does your water heater have a warranty? When was the last time your furnace was serviced? These are things you should ask yourself before winter hits.

Whether this is your first year owning a home or you paid off your mortgage years ago, prepping your home for winter in October is a good practice to make sure your investment lasts for a long time. When you start now, you have plenty of time to schedule appointments, make repairs, and ensure your home is a cozy safe haven from the chilling season ahead.