Winter in Seattle, Washington can feel a bit drab, damp, and cold. Along with the colder temperatures comes some additional home maintenance for homeowners. We have all the tips and tricks to get your home ready for the winter season with our winter maintenance checklist for your Seattle home.
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Outside
Winter maintenance is necessary both outside and inside your Seattle home. Some steps to take outside to ensure your property is safe from damaging weather and chilling blankets of snow include:
- Remove debris from gutters and downspouts
- Trim any necessary tree branches as heavy snow can cause them to break
- Cut back any shrubs or foliage that may be rubbing against your home
- Remove window screens (this can boost natural light inside!)
- Keep walkways and driveways cleared from snow and ice
Inside
Winter maintenance inside your home is just as important as exterior details. You should be sure to check your heating system before temperatures really begin to drop. This will ensure a toasty, warm home when you need it most. Other indoor maintenance to consider includes:
- Schedule for your chimney to be cleaned (if you plan to have fires regularly)
- Fill any air leaks around windows and doors to ensure drafts stay outside
- Stock up on emergency supplies in the event you get snowed in (remember non-perishable food, water, and hygiene essentials)
- Prevent pipes from freezing by keeping your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees (when away)
- Reverse the direction of ceiling fans to help circulate warm air around your home
- Ensure attic insulation is properly placed (and consider adding insulation to the walls of your attached garage or basement ceiling for extra warmth)
- Change your furnace filter regularly
Winter watch out
Winter months can mean you need to watch out for hazards as a homeowner. Consider the amount of snow on your roof. It’s recommended to remove snow from your roof if the depth exceeds two feet. Lookout for ice dams and carefully remove snow and ice from gutters if you see one forming.
It’s also wise to keep an eye on your tree limbs. Big snowfalls can make weak branches give way which can be dangerous for you and your family.
Other considerations:
- Be on the lookout for odd noises from your furnace (if you hear something odd, have the furnace inspected and cleaned by a professional)
- Ensure batteries are new in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
- Check your foundation for cracks and have them sealed before cool air can enter
- Protect your entryway flooring from drippy winter boots by adding an adequate doormat and an easy place to put wet garments and shoes