Snowfall. Thundersnow. Sleet. Snowpocalypse. You’ve heard it all, and you know Chicago gets more than chilly in the winter. When you’re outdoors, the best thing you can do is bundle up. But your home needs to be prepared for this weather, too! There’s plenty of ways to do just that.
Tune up your heating system
Check for local prices on a tune-up for your heating system. This way, you can be guaranteed a warm home all winter. Usually, this service doesn’t cost more than $100.
Reverse those fans
Flip the switch on your ceiling fans so the blades rotate in the other direction. This pushes the warm air resting at ceiling level down into the room. This could afford you the ability to drop the thermostat by a degree or two.
Check your roof
Grab the ladder before the ice and frost sets in! Check your roof for missing or loose shingles, and if you spot any, contact a local roofer to replace them. A small section or just a few shingles shouldn’t cost much, but a bigger section may cost more. This will reduce the possibility of a leaky roof when those snowstorms come a knocking.
Reapply caulk to windows and doors
Is the space around your windows and doors wider than a nickel? It’s time to break out the caulk, then! Do this on the exterior, and you’ll be guaranteed less drafty winds from your windows and doors all winter.
Clean your gutters
Get those leaves out of your gutter! You don’t have to hire someone for this project, but it isn’t always a fun one on a windy, cold day. Cleaning your gutters is super important, as clogged gutters can cause water to back up to the house. This can cause leaks or damage roofing and siding.
Don’t rake the leaves
Instead of raking those leaves, mow them! Grab your lawnmower, without the bag, and cut dry leaves into small pieces. These will keep your lawn healthy throughout the long Chicago winter.
Sweep that chimney
If you have a chimney, you may want to look into a getting it swept. Prevent fires and carbon monoxide from creeping into your home by being sure your chimney, fireplace, and vents are in good condition and clean.
Stop by your local hardware store
Icy sidewalks and driveways are no joke, and you’ll be pretty happy when you’ve already stocked up on a new shovel, salt, or sand for your home. This way, when the always fun “surprise snowfall” hits Chicago, you’ll be a bit more prepared.
Preparing your home for the cold, snowy winters of the midwest is a no-brainer. Your home is important, so show it some TLC.