Our recent weeks of frigid temps delivered power bill sticker shock for many local residents!

Whether you’re battling a polar vortex or sweltering in a heatwave, extreme temperatures can send your power bills soaring. Keeping your home comfortable shouldn’t mean breaking the bank. 

Here are five practical tips to help you save energy and money, no matter how extreme the temperature gets.

1) Seal the deal (and the drafts, too)

Air leaks are a major culprit for energy waste. In cold weather, they let precious heat escape, forcing your heating system to work harder. In hot weather, they allow cool air to leak out, making your air conditioner struggle.

This means your HVAC system runs longer, consuming more energy and driving up your bills. Think of it like trying to heat or cool a house with the windows open – inefficient and expensive!

Don’t forget about checking the attic access hatch and any other less obvious areas. A little effort in sealing can make a big difference in your energy bill.

Pay close attention to these common problem areas:

• Windows and Doors: Check for gaps around the frames.
• Pipes and Wiring: Look where pipes and wires enter your home.
• Attic Access Hatch or Retractable Ladder: This can be a major source of air leakage.
• Fireplace Damper: Ensure it’s closed tightly when not in use.
• Baseboards and Trim: Gaps can exist along these areas.
• Outlets and Switches: Believe it or not, air can leak through these!

Do you have a retractable attic ladder? These can suck the heat right out of the room! Click here to check out an economical, zip-up attic ladder cover. 

Here’s the fix:

• Weather Stripping: Apply weather stripping around doors and windows to create a seal.
• Caulk: Use caulk to fill gaps and cracks around windows, pipes, and other openings. Choose a caulk appropriate for the material (e.g., silicone for bathrooms).
• Expanding Foam: For larger gaps where pipes enter the home, expanding foam can be very effective. Be careful not to over-apply as it can swell alarmingly!
• Door Sweeps: Install door sweeps at the bottom of exterior doors to prevent drafts.
• Electrical outlet and Switch Sealers: These inexpensive foam gaskets can be placed behind outlet and switch covers to reduce airflow.

Pro Tip: Do a “home energy audit” by checking for drafts on a windy day. Hold a lit candle or a piece of tissue paper near windows, doors, and other openings. If the flame flickers or the tissue moves, you have an air leak. 

WARNING: Be sure not to set your curtains on fire if you’re using the candle method.

2) Smart thermostat, smarter savings!

A programmable or smart thermostat is a game-changer for energy efficiency. It allows you to set temperature schedules based on your daily routine, automatically adjusting the temperature when you’re away at work or asleep. This prevents your heating or cooling system from running unnecessarily, saving you energy and money.

Here’s how to keep your cool (or your warmth):

• Programmable Thermostats: These allow you to set different temperatures for different times of day. For example, you can set the thermostat to a lower temperature when you’re at work and a comfortable temperature for when you’re home.
• Smart Thermostats: These take it a step further by learning your preferences over time. They can even adjust the temperature based on weather forecasts and your location. Some models have apps for smartphone connectivity, giving you even more flexibility.

Choosing the right thermostat: Consider features like Wi-Fi connectivity, learning capabilities, and compatibility with your HVAC system. For most homeowners, your best bet would be to make an appointment with your HVAC company to choose the right model and perform the installation.

Click here for a Consumer Reports comparison of smart and programmable thermostats.

3) Layer up (or down) for energy savings

This might seem obvious, but it’s worth repeating: personal comfort adjustments can significantly impact your energy usage.

• Cold Weather: Embrace layers of clothing to stay warm without relying solely on your heating system. Think cozy sweaters, warm socks, thermal underwear, and even a blanket while watching TV. Lowering your thermostat by a few degrees and layering up can make a noticeable difference in your energy bill.
• Hot Weather: Opt for lightweight, breathable fabrics like cotton and linen. Use fans to circulate air, making the room feel cooler and allowing you to set your AC a few degrees higher. Fans use significantly less energy than air conditioners.

4) Window wisdom: Harness (or block) the sun

Your windows can be a major source of heat gain in the summer and heat loss in the winter.

Managing sunlight effectively is crucial for energy savings. Hear are a few tips:

• Winter: Maximize natural light during the colder months. Keep curtains and blinds open during the day to allow the sun to warm your home. When the sun goes down, close them to insulate your windows and prevent heat from escaping.
• Summer: Do the opposite. Close curtains and blinds, especially on south- and west-facing windows, during the hottest part of the day to block out the sun’s rays and keep your home cooler.
• Window Treatments: Consider investing in thermal curtains or window films for added insulation. These can significantly reduce heat transfer through your windows.
• Planting Trees: Planting trees around your home can provide shade in the summer and reduce wind exposure in the winter, further improving energy efficiency.

5) HVAC Checkup: An ounce of prevention

Regular maintenance of your heating and cooling system is crucial for efficiency and longevity. Trying to save pennies on regular maintenance can cost you mega bucks if your system fails. Here’s how to keep your HVAC system humming:

• Annual Check-ups: Schedule annual check-ups with a qualified HVAC technician. They can identify potential problems, clean coils, check refrigerant levels, and ensure proper airflow. Preventative maintenance can catch small issues before they become major (and expensive) repairs.
• Filter Changes: Don’t forget to change your air filters regularly! A dirty filter restricts airflow, making your system work harder and less efficiently. Check your filters monthly and replace them as needed (usually every 1-3 months).
• DIY Maintenance: In addition to professional check-ups, there are some things you can do yourself. Keep vents and registers clear of obstructions, and occasionally check your exterior HVAC unit, making sure it is free of encroaching shrubs, or other obstructions.

By implementing these five tips, you can exercise some control over your energy consumption and significantly reduce your power bills, no matter how extreme the weather outside. A little planning and effort can go a long way in keeping your home comfortable and your wallet happy.

Buying or selling a home in Western North Carolina?

Avoid unpleasant surprises! Contact Asheville Home Inspector Peter Young before signing any contracts. Call (828) 808-4980, or click here to make an appointment.

The post Five ways to save on your power bills in extreme weather appeared first on Peter Young Home Inspections.

Peter Young Home Inspections is open for business to take care of all your home inspection needs.

If you suspect your home was damaged in the recent hurricane, we are offering limited storm damage inspections, such as:

• Roof • Exterior • Basement • Attic • Crawlspace

Please call Peter Young at 828-808-4980 for pricing.

For regular home inspections, please see our contact information below to arrange an appointment.

Winterize your home now to stay cozy

Autumn has passed its prime. Dazzling gold and red are giving way to brown, and the trees are laying down their crunchy, leafy carpets everywhere. As the crisp autumn air becomes cooler, it’s time to prepare your home for the upcoming winter months.

A well-winterized home not only ensures comfort but also helps you save on energy costs. By taking the necessary steps to winterize your home, you can enjoy a warm and cozy winter season. Let’s take a look.

The great outdoors

Insulate pipes: One of the most crucial steps in winterizing your home is to protect your plumbing system from freezing temperatures. Insulate exposed pipes, particularly those located in unheated areas like basements, attics, and crawl spaces. Use pipe insulation foam or heat tape to wrap pipes effectively.

Drain outdoor faucets: To prevent freezing and potential pipe bursts, turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain them completely. You can also attach a frost-proof faucet cover to provide additional protection. If you don’t have a shut-off for outdoor faucets, protect them with an insulating cover that is available at most home supply stores. Polar Cap is an effective and inexpensive option.

Clean gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause significant damage to your roof and home’s interior. Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water drainage.

Trim trees and shrubs: Overhanging branches can damage your roof and power lines during heavy snowfall or strong winds. Keep trees and shrubs away from your roof line.

Inspect your roof: A well-maintained roof is essential for keeping your home warm and dry. Inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, and repair any issues promptly. Consider hiring a professional inspector for a thorough assessment.

Indoor preparations

Check your heating system: Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up of your heating system to ensure it’s working efficiently.

Change the air filter regularly to improve airflow and reduce energy consumption.

If you have a fireplace or woodburning stove, clean the chimney and flue to prevent carbon monoxide buildup.

Cleaning your fireplace and chimney is essential to remove creosote buildup and prevent chimney fires. Stock up on firewood and ensure your fireplace is in good working condition.

Seal air leaks: Drafts can significantly impact your home’s energy efficiency and comfort. Seal any gaps or cracks around windows, doors, and other openings to prevent cold air from entering your home. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or insulation foam to seal these areas effectively.

Insulate your attic: Proper attic insulation is crucial for maintaining a comfortable indoor temperature. Ensure your attic is adequately insulated to minimize heat loss. If necessary, add additional insulation to improve energy efficiency. Click here for an Energy Star article on attic insulation.

Reverse ceiling fans: During the winter months, reverse the direction of your ceiling fans to clockwise rotation. This will push warm air downward, creating a more efficient heating system.

Additional steps for winter comfort

Wait! There’s more.

Take these additional steps to stay warm and cozy during those cold winter months.

Your preparation will pay dividends in both comfort and in lower energy bills.

• Install Storm Windows or Weatherstripping: Storm windows can significantly improve your home’s energy efficiency. If you don’t have storm windows, apply weatherstripping to seal gaps around your existing windows. Here’s a guide to weatherstripping from This Old House.
• Use Thermal Curtains: Thermal curtains can help insulate your home by reducing heat loss through windows.
• Lower Your Thermostat: Lowering your thermostat by a few degrees can save energy and reduce heating costs.
• Use a Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat allows you to set specific temperatures for different times of the day, optimizing energy usage.
• Keep Your Home Humidified: Dry air can irritate your skin and respiratory system. Use a humidifier to add moisture to the air and improve indoor comfort.

By following these tips, you can ensure your home is ready to withstand the winter weather and stay warm, cozy, and energy-efficient all season long!

Buying or selling a home in Western North Carolina?

Avoid unpleasant surprises! Contact Asheville Home Inspector Peter Young before signing any contracts. Call (828) 808-4980, or click here to make an appointment.

The post Open for business appeared first on Peter Young Home Inspections.

Start with your outdoor tasks, before it gets really chilly, then work your way indoors. Complete these chores now, and you’ll have more time to be warm and cozy this winter.

What will help you get ready? Let’s take a look.

Winterize your outdoor power equipment

Soon the grass will go dormant and mowing season will end. Once mowing is done for the year, this is a great time to schedule your mower for service. During the spring and summer months, small engine repair shops are swamped with customers. Fall and winter not so much.

Take your mower to the shop or have it picked up for service. While it’s in the shop get them to sharpen the blades, change the oil, and if a few seasons have passed, change the spark plugs.

When your mower is returned, winterize the fuel by adding Sta-Bil fuel stabilizer according to directions. This helps keep fuel viable during the cold, dormant months, and it helps protect your carburetor.

Finally, remove the battery and store it indoors during the cold winter months. Before you put it back in (if possible) give it a trickle charge to bring it up to speed before starting it again in the spring.

NOTE: You can use Sta-Bil products in two-stroke weed eaters, as well. Be sure to follow directions carefully.

Your mind is in the gutter!

“The falling leaves drift by the window
The autumn leaves of red and gold…” 
– Autumn Leaves, sung by Nat King Cole, composed by Joseph Kosma, John Mercer and Jacques Prevert

Those autumn leaves are so beautiful. They are the best part of the fall season. But everything beautiful has a flip side, and those leaves can clog up your gutters and downspouts, leaving your home susceptible to rotting soffits and roof leaks.

Keep a watchful eye. If you have a lot of trees around your property, you may have to clean the gutters and downspouts more than once before winter. You’ll need a good sense of balance and a strong, steady ladder. Let common sense prevail; if you’re not confident on ladders, hire someone to do the job.

Water features and hose bibs

If you have an unheated pool, fountain, waterfall, or other water feature, get it tucked in for winter before the fall slips away.

For pools, you’ll need to drain them down a bit, toss them a pillow (!), and cover with a tarp. Actually, it’s a bit more involved than this. Click here for instructions on winterizing your pool.

For small fountains, it’s probably best to drain them and shut off the water. If the lines are underground, they are not likely to freeze, but leaving water in the basin can cause cracking and damage during freezes. Dry them out and cover with a tarp for the winter.

Ponds and waterfalls can be tricky in the winter. If your pond is deep enough, the fish will dive to the bottom in the colder months. If a waterfall feeds the pond, some users shut it down for the winter to keep cold water from recirculating to the bottom. But don’t shut down your filtration system. For best advice, contact your system’s installer.

Don’t forget your hose bibs. Leaving them exposed to frigid temps can cause the pipe to burst in the wall, resulting in costly repairs. There’s a quick fix. Polar Cap makes a hard plastic, Styrofoam-lined cover that fits over and secures to your hose bib. It’s available at most big box home stores for less than six dollars.

Conduct an outdoor home inspection

Way before the cold sets in, take a leisurely stroll around your house to take stock of what needs winterizing. If you’re not very handy, or if you’re a newbie to home maintenance, this would be a good time to hire a professional home inspector. 

Here’s what you need to do:

• Check windows and doors for broken seals and damaged caulk. Make repairs to stay warm and save energy when the cold arrives. NOTE: While you’re dealing with your windows, get them clean before those cold winter days. Clean them outside and inside for a storybook view of those winter wonderland days. On the inside, clean and dust your blinds, and wipe down your window sills.
• Inspect your foundation for cracks, and call a pro to make repairs if you find them.
• Check out the roof for loose or cracked shingles, and do the fixes long before your roof gets covered with snow.
• Be sure to seal up any opening where mice and insects could invade your home seeking warmth. Mice can get in through holes no bigger than a dime!
• Call your HVAC company for a maintenance check on your heating system. You don’t need unpleasant surprises on really cold nights.
• And speaking of HVAC, change or wash your filters before the cold weather puts a high demand on your system.

Call Bert (the chimney sweep)!

Your chimney or stove pipe needs cleaning and inspection yearly. FEMA reports about 25,000 chimney fires each year in the United States. 

Most of these are due to buildup of creosote in the chimney or flue, all preventable by regular cleaning.

And don’t overlook your gas log heating. It needs to be cleaned and inspected annually, as well.

Here are some fast facts from the EPA about fireplace and stove safety.

Where there’s smoke

Each fall and spring are perfect times to replace smoke detector and carbon monoxide detector batteries. Don’t put it off! Your life may depend upon it.

About face!

Turn off your ceiling fans, clean the blades, and then reverse the direction with the little switch. For the winter, you want the blades rotating clockwise to pull air in an upward direction to move the heated air all around the room.

It’s so much easier to prepare for winter when you start in the fall! Follow these tips, and enjoy the beauty of the coming seasons.

Buying or selling a home in Western North Carolina?

Avoid unpleasant surprises! Contact Asheville Home Inspector Peter Young before signing any contracts. Call (828) 808-4980, or click here to make an appointment.

The post Fall projects prepare your home for winter appeared first on Peter Young Home Inspections.

Winter began officially with the recent solstice, and although the weather is mild at the moment, it probably won’t stay this way. Winter can inflict severe weather conditions, with a risk of damage to your roof, interior, and plumbing.

Not to worry! There are some steps you can take to protect your home during wild winter weather when the mercury dips below 32º F. Let’s take a look.

That dam ice!

In extreme winter weather, snow and ice can accumulate on trees, causing limbs to crash onto houses and power lines. 

Be sure overhanging tree limbs are cut back before winter snows come calling to prevent damage to your roof before it occurs.

A real culprit for damage is the creation of ice dams. These are caused when heavy snow melts from attic heat caused by inadequate insulation and then refreezes in low temperatures. Ice can get under the shingles on your roof, and the warm attic air melts it yet again, possibly exposing your home to interior water damage. 

The most important safeguard is keeping heated air from your home’s interior out of your attic. Be sure the attic floor has a thick layer of insulation, and that your roof or soffit vents are free of debris and are venting warm air out of the attic. You want to keep your attic cool in winter to minimize the cycle of freezing, thawing, and refreezing that causes ice dams. 

Keeping your drain gutters clear to ensure meltwater drains freely is another way to prevent ice dams. Just be careful up on that ladder when removing leaves and debris. Work only at arm’s length, and never lean over. If you’re insecure on ladders, hire a pro to do the job.

Stay warm safely

In winter, furnaces and gas heat sources will keep you toasty, and they will keep your house from freezing and bursting the plumbing. 

However, they can emit deadly carbon monoxide (CO) if not properly maintained or ventilated.

Resist the temptation to use unvented propane appliances. But even if your system is ventilated, CO is nothing to take lightly. Install CO detectors on each floor of your home to alert you of any leaks. These are easy to install, just plug them into an electrical outlet. If the detector goes off, get out of the house quickly, and call your gas company.

Consider getting a home generator

Speaking of your furnace, all bets are off if you lose electrical power in a winter storm. Your water heater stops working, and if you’re on a well, you’ll soon have no running water. Consider a natural gas or propane generator to power your home during blackouts. Besides keeping you warm, it can power some lights, your WiFi, your CO detector, and your fridge. 

Generators range in size and capability, so do your homework to know what size unit will suit your needs. Have it installed by a qualified electrician with an automatic on/off switch. Finally, NEVER operate a gas generator indoors.

Wishing you all a joyous New Year!

Peter Young Home Inspections wishes you and your family a joyous, healthy, and prosperous New Year. 

Let’s raise our glasses and toast to making 2024 our best year ever!

Buying or selling a home?

Avoid unpleasant surprises! Contact Asheville Home Inspector Peter Young before signing any contracts. Call (828) 808-4980, or click here to make an appointment.

The post Keeping your home safe in extreme winter weather appeared first on Peter Young Home Inspections.

Autumn is here again! The leaves are changing color, the air is getting cooler, and soon the first signs of winter will appear. 

Don’t wait until the first snow or frost to make sure your home is ready for winter. Here are some things to do right now.

1. Get your HVAC system checked

Don’t wait for an emergency. A heating system check is one of the most important things you can do to prepare your home for winter. Get a qualified HVAC technician to inspect your furnace, boiler, or heat pump to ensure it’s in good working order. Have them clean and tune up the system to help it run more efficiently and save you money on bills.

If you heat with wood, keep this in mind: Fireplaces, wood stoves, and chimneys, and are some of the biggest causes of home fires. Get yours inspected and serviced annually. If you burned more than five fires the previous year, get the chimney or pipe cleaned thoroughly.

Don’t neglect to inspect the chimney cap or pipe cap, which keeps heat-seeking birds and varmints out.

2. Protect indoor pipes

Burst pipes are common occurrences in winter, especially in unheated areas such as basements, attics, crawl spaces and pipes along exterior walls. More than a third of burst pipes happen in cold basements. Fixing burst pipes can cost $500 or more to repair, and can cause thousands of dollars more in additional damage to your home.

A good solution is pipe insulation, which you can install yourself without any special skills. It comes pre-slit along its length, and it costs as little as 50 cents per linear foot at most home supply stores. Just cut it to size and snuggle it around exposed pipes. Put it under sinks and all the areas mentioned above.

Click here to read about how to keep pipes from freezing.

3. Protect outside water sources

Drain and store your garden hoses and sprinklers before the first frost to keep them from freezing and bursting. Drain your hose bibs by shutting off the water supply and opening the spigot to drain out any water. Turn the water supply back on when you’re done.

Also, it’s good idea is to put an insulating cover on hose bibs. You can buy these for just a few dollars at home supply stores.

4. Insulate your home and seal air leaks

Insulation is a necessity for keeping warm in the winter and cool in the summer. If your home is not insulated properly, you can expect high heating and cooling bills. 

Be sure to add insulation to your attic and basement, too. It’s a good investment.

How much insulation you require depends upon your regional temperatures. Insulating your attic keeps heat in your living quarters and out of the attic. An additional advantage is that a cooler attic in winter might prevent ice dams from forming and damaging your roof.

Check out this Energy Star guide to insulation to find out more about what you need in your area.

Another way to stay warm in winter is to seal air leaks that let warm air out and cold air in. Hold a candle near doors, windows, and baseboards. If the candle flickers, air is leaking. You can seal these leaks with caulk and weatherstripping.

5. Keep your mind in the gutter!

Clogged gutters can be hazardous in the winter. Water can back up and freeze when temperatures drop. You need to be sure that snow melt can run off your roof and into downspouts. Clean your gutters well ahead of the first frost or snowfall to avoid water damage to your roof and foundation. Do it yourself if you’re steady on a ladder. Or call a handyman to do the job. Just be sure to get it done!

6. Stock up on supplies

A winter storm might trap you in your house for many days. Keep an emergency supply of non-perishable canned foods, bottled water, a well-stocked first aid kit, and plenty of blankets to keep you warm.

7. Be ready for power outages

Power outages can occur after snowstorms, so be prepared. Keep flashlights, batteries, and a battery-powered weather radio on hand.

Another solution is to invest in a generator. These can range from small units that can power your refrigerator and a few lights to large, whole-house systems. These must be installed by a qualified electrician.

8. Look out below!

Overgrown trees and shrubs can damage your home during a winter storm. Trim any trees or shrubs that are close to your house or power lines. Snow-laden branches can snap and cause thousands of dollars in damage to your roof. If you see branches hanging over your house, call a tree service or arborist NOW to get them cut back. The closer you get to winter, the busier these professionals will be.

If overhanging limbs are small and easy to reach, and if you’re steady on a ladder and handy with a chainsaw, you might do it yourself. However, if they’re high up, or if you’ve never done this kind of work before, it’s better to hire a pro. Some folks call trees “widow makers,” and not without good reasons.

Follow these tips to be sure you and your home are ready for winter.

Buying or selling a home in Western North Carolina?

Avoid unpleasant surprises! Contact Asheville Home Inspector Peter Young before signing any contracts. Call (828) 808-4980, or click here to make an appointment.

The post 8 ways to prepare for winter NOW appeared first on Peter Young Home Inspections.

Winter in the Western North Carolina mountains has a charm all its own, and a wide range of temperatures throughout the season. Crisp winter days, where the mercury hovers in the 40s, with robins-egg-blue, cloudless skies can swiftly give way to postcard-perfect snow dumps of a foot or more. Time to pull out the old snowboard, inner tube, or sled! 

Frosty winter fun has a more serious side when you consider what it can do to unprepared homes. This is definitely a proving ground for that old “ounce of prevention” proverb. In 2021, a record-breaking $15.1 billion worth of insured losses were the result of winter storms, with much of the damage attributable to burst pipes. This type of damage is preventable with proper maintenance and precautions.

Check out this infographic about the effects of winter damage to homes.

Let’s take a look at 10 winter tips that can protect your home from damage during cold weather.

1) Winter’s bursting out all over!

Here’s a surprising statistic: The lion’s share of winter insurance claims are linked to frozen and burst pipes. If your pipes burst and flood your home, expect at least $10,000 to $20,000 in repair costs. The kicker is that armed with a bit of foreknowledge, you can prevent the damage.

Here’s what you can do:

Use pipe insulation in areas with exposed pipes, such as under sinks, in crawl spaces, in attics, and on pipes that run along exterior walls. And don’t forget basements, where 37 percent of burst pipes are said to occur.

Pipe insulation is easy to install and costs as little as 50 cents per linear foot. You can find it in most hardware stores and big-box home stores.

Pay careful attention to pipes under kitchen sinks that adjoin an outside wall. In addition to covering them with pipe insulation, leave your cabinets open on really cold nights to let warmer air from the house help warm the pipes. For added protection, you can leave a drip of water running through the pipes. It helps if you keep your home’s thermostat set to 65º or higher.

2) Check heaters, fireplaces, furnaces, and chimneys before use

Fireplaces, heaters, and chimneys are a major cause of home fires during the winter. Have them professionally inspected annually, before the start of the cold season. Be sure to ask the inspector to check out your brick chimney or stovepipe to ensure all is in good working order.

Also, now is the time to replace the batteries in your smoke detector and your carbon monoxide detector. If you don’t have a carbon monoxide detector, get one! It might just save your life.

3) Insulate your attic and crawlspace

Keep heat in your home where it belongs, and not in your attic or crawlspace. Heating your attic in winter poses a greater problem than just higher heating bills. Rapid thaw and refreezing of snow on the roof can cause ice dams, which can cause costly damage to your roof and eaves. 

How much insulation do you need? This varies by region and temperature. Here’s a handy insulation guide from Energy Star to give you more insights.

Get your mind into the gutter!

What comes before winter? Why, fall of course! Falling leaves in autumn can clog up your gutters. Water backups can freeze once temperature plummets, and then melting snow can’t pass into your downspouts. Clean out those gutters and downspouts as fall nears its end to keep water flowing down.

5) Check for damaged roof shingles

Snow weighs heavily upon your roof – about 25 pounds per cubic foot. That kind of pressure lets water find its way through loose or missing shingles to flow down into your home. If you can’t do the inspection and repairs safely yourself, get a licensed roofer check it out and make any fixes before the first snow.

6) Any port in a storm (window)

If you have storm windows, it’s time to remove and store your screens, swapping them out for your storm windows. If you don’t have storm windows, consider getting some. They provide an insulating layer of air between your windows and the frigid outdoors, and they also add protection again driving rain and snow during heavy storms.

7) Time for a trim

Trim back tree branches that hang over or touch your roof. Keep a careful eye out for dead branches. Heavy snow can snap dead branches, causing costly damage if they hit your roof or siding. If you’re unsure about what to do, get a reputable tree service to come out and remove any questionable limbs.

8) Stone cold

Notice any loose stones on steps, paths, or patios? Fix them now, because they’ll only get worse over the winter. The natural freeze and thaw cycle of the soil is called “frost heave,” and it will further dislodge those loose stones. Reset those stones before the cold really sets in.

9) Mark your paths

With a foot or so of snow on the ground, you’ll lose track of where walkway, driveways, and garden beds begin and end. Mark your paths clearly with driveway markers or fiberglass poles to delineate these areas to help with snow blowing, shoveling, or plowing.

10) Protect outdoor water sources

Drain and stash your hoses before a deep freeze to prevent freezing and bursting. Pay special attention to hose bibs. If you have a shutoff valve for the hose bib’s water supply, shut it off and then drain the bib by turning on the spigot so the any remaining water flushes out. Don’t just remove the hose and shut off the spigot, because water trapped in the pipe can freeze and burst somewhere inside your exterior wall. That would require a costly repair!

An easy-to-install, insulated hose bib cover is a great solution. They’re available at hardware stores and home centers. Watch this video to learn more.

As you can see, winter weather can pose some serious threats to your home, but with a bit of knowledge, you can keep your home safe.

Buying or selling a home?

Avoid unpleasant surprises! Contact Asheville Home Inspector Peter Young before signing any contracts. Call (828) 808-4980, or click here to make an appointment.

The post 10 tips to prepare your home for winter appeared first on Peter Young Home Inspections.