Preparing Your Pacific Northwest Home for Winter: Essential Fall Maintenance Tips
As autumn settles in and temperatures begin to cool, Pacific Northwest homeowners need to prepare their properties for the winter months. Owning a home is rewarding, but it also brings a set of seasonal maintenance tasks that help prevent costly repairs down the line. Here are some essential tips to get your home ready for winter, brought to you by Shane Bangle from The Manna Group.
1. Winterize Your Sprinkler System
One of the most crucial tasks in the Pacific Northwest is a sprinkler blowout. When water freezes in your sprinkler lines, it expands, which can lead to broken pipes or sprinkler heads that need repair in spring. Blowing out your sprinkler system clears the water from the lines, ensuring they don’t freeze during winter. Unlike certain interior pipes, sprinkler system materials are not designed to handle expanding ice, making this step a must-do to avoid leaks and repairs later.
2. Clear Out Your Gutters
With frequent rain and snowfall, clean gutters are essential to directing water away from your home. Clogged gutters can lead to water pooling around your foundation, potentially causing settling and other structural issues. Make sure your gutters are clear of leaves, pine needles, and debris, which can accumulate quickly during fall. If you don’t have gutter guards, consider installing them; mesh and wire guards can help prevent clogging, though they may still require occasional cleaning, especially if you have pine trees nearby.
Another important tip: check the downspouts to ensure they direct water at least three to four feet away from your home’s foundation. This simple step can prevent water damage and erosion around your foundation, keeping your home safe and dry.
3. Service Your Furnace
As temperatures drop, your furnace will soon be working hard to keep your home warm. Scheduling a furnace cleaning and maintenance check is a smart investment. A basic furnace service typically costs between $150 and $180 and includes inspecting and cleaning internal components. This maintenance can extend the life of your furnace, help it operate more efficiently, and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Additionally, if your furnace stops working in the middle of winter, having a home warranty can make repairs easier and more affordable.
4. Inspect Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against rain, snow, and cold. Fall is the perfect time to inspect your roof and ensure there are no missing shingles or damaged areas. Pay particular attention to plumbing vents, which typically have a rubber boot to prevent leaks. Over time, this rubber boot can deteriorate and crack due to sun exposure. A common fix is to apply a waterproofing sealant, like Oh Henry or Blackjack, which protects the vent and prevents water from seeping through.
With winter just around the corner, it’s wise to address any roof repairs sooner rather than later. Roofers often have more availability for small repairs as the season slows down, so you’ll have a better chance of getting any necessary work completed promptly.
5. Install or Check Heat Tape to Prevent Ice Dams
Ice dams occur when snow melts on the roof, refreezes at night, and prevents proper drainage. This can cause water to back up and seep under shingles, potentially leading to leaks and water damage. Installing heat tape along the edges of your roof can prevent ice dams by keeping critical areas warm enough to prevent freezing.
Heat tape is typically controlled by a temperature-sensitive plug that activates only when needed, saving energy. Keep an eye on it periodically throughout the winter, especially if your roof has valleys or areas where snow tends to accumulate. This preventative step can protect both your roof and your home’s interior from water damage.
6. Lawn Aeration and Landscaping Maintenance
Fall is also an excellent time to aerate your lawn, allowing air, water, and nutrients to penetrate the soil before the ground freezes. While it’s not essential for every yard, aeration can be especially beneficial if you have compacted soil. Additionally, consider pruning trees and shrubs that could pose risks in high winds or heavy snowfall. Well-maintained landscaping can contribute to your home’s curb appeal and overall safety.
7. Check for Additional Exterior Issues
Don’t forget to inspect other exterior aspects of your home, such as windows and doors, to ensure they are sealed properly. Cold air drafts can increase heating costs, so adding weather stripping where needed can make a noticeable difference.
Preparing your home for winter in the Pacific Northwest can seem like a daunting list, but by tackling each of these tasks, you’ll be protecting your home from winter’s harsh conditions and setting yourself up for a smoother transition to spring. If you have any questions or need assistance with home maintenance, feel free to reach out to The Manna Group. We’re here to help you keep your home in top condition all year long!
