Brrr! Time to Prep for Colder Weather

As the leaves fall and the winds grow colder, it's time to ensure your home has all the winter gear it needs to keep you and your loved ones warm through the winter months!

Here are some valuable tips you can use to start preparing your home for colder weather:

Check the Roof

You don't want to find out you have a leaky or creaky roof after the first snow hits. A roof inspection can help you spot any potential issues.

Squeamish about heights? Don't worry, you can do a thorough inspection from the ground using a pair of binoculars!

Work your way around your house, looking for these stand-out signs:

  • Cracked caulk or rust spots.
  • Shingles that are buckling, curling, or blistering.
  • Missing or broken shingles.
  • Cracked and worn rubber around vent pipes.
  • Excessive moss and lichen could signal the roof is decaying underneath. Black algae stains are just cosmetic!

Insulate Windows

Winter drafts can drive up your energy bill and kill the cozy vibe you want inside your home when it's cold outside, if your windows have any air leaks. By reducing drafts, you can lower your home's energy costs by up to 20% per year, according to the U.S. Energy Department, while also making your living space more comfortable and warm, allowing you to focus on pouring the hot cocoa rather than patching up pesky window seals.

Turn Off Exterior Faucets

Undrained water in pipes can freeze once winter hits, which will likely cause pipes to burst as the ice expands. Start by disconnecting all garden hoses and draining the water within the faucets!

If you don't have frost-proof faucets (homes more than ten to 15 years old typically do not), turn off the shut-off valve inside your home.

Restock Winter Essentials

Don't wait until the first cold front hits to restock on winter essentials!

  • Be sure to have salt or ice melt on hand for walkways and driveways.
  • Plenty of water and non-perishables on hand in case the power goes out during a storm.
  • Alternate light sources such as candles and flashlights.
  • Sufficient winter clothes to keep you warm during the cold months.
  • Make sure your first aid kit is fully stocked with all necessary supplies in case of emergency.

All you have to worry about this winter is pouring the hot cocoa and snuggling by the fire with the protection of AFI’s Umbrella Insurance, which includes coverage above and beyond your homeowner, personal liability, and auto insurance. Protect nearly everything else with AFI insurance products. Learn more here.

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