Winter is coming and it’s bringing the cold, rain, and, for a lot of us, snow and hail with it. While it might seem like the perfect opportunity to sit indoors, wrap up warm, and enjoy the festive mood, you shouldn’t assume that your home has you protected as well as you want. Here, we’re going to look at a few household disasters that can happen if you’re not diligent in protecting the home.
The big freeze
If you’re going to make any home improvements this winter, then you should be looking at the heating system that you’re using first and foremost. Your HVAC system should be inspected and serviced once a year, at least, but a lot of people don’t do that much. As such, it can get a loss more inefficient and more prone to breaking down over time, especially when it’s being used a lot more frequently, which tends to be the case in winter. Avoid having to go days or even weeks without heating by looking at upgrading your system now.
Problems with your pipes
If there are any plumbing issues, then the excessive cold of winter can make them much worse. This is why you should call a Beverly Hills plumber (if that is where you live) and have them do routine checks on the pipes and other plumbing before the cold weather kicks in. These routine checks can let you know what all your pipes require to prepare for the winter. For one, it’s crucial to have your pipes insulated to ensure that the change in temperatures doesn’t lead to any burst pipes. Otherwise, if you spot any signs of leaks or damp, then now is the time to get in touch with a team like Morningside Plumbers. A good emergency plumber can make sure that these problems are tackled as quickly as possible. If you have any outdoor faucets, but sure to check that they don’t get frozen, too.
Shifting soil
Any movements in the soil around the home can lead to serious danger, particularly as it can cause damage to your foundation. Frost heave can happen when water floods the soil and then freezes. One of the most common causes of these flooding water in the first place is poorly maintained gutters. Work with teams like G&S Window Washing to make sure that your gutters are completely clear for winter. Not only can overflowing gutters lead to frost heave, but they can also cause leaks that penetrate the home, with real potential to cause water damage indoors, as well.
Threatening icicles
While there might be something picturesque about them, you shouldn’t underestimate the real danger that icicles can pose. If a piece of an icicle breaks and falls, it can cause very serious injury to anyone who might be beneath. As such, you should take the time to safely break the icicles off manually as soon as you see them. Look at what is causing the icicles to form, as well. If it’s water from an overflowing gutter, then that is just another reason to take care of that particular headache.
That said, vehicles are a necessity in today’s time and age, and it is also necessary to take the required precautions so as to prevent any harm from coming to your automobile (automobile repair does take a toll on your wallet). Having insurance for the same might sound like a good option to explore but if your car has already been totaled by natural elements such as hailstones, it is better that you look at auto hail damage repair services near you to get it fixed.
Ensure that you take care to prepare your home for the weather as best as possible. With the tips above, you can ensure you’re ready for whatever the winter may bring.