Proper preparation is key to keeping winter’s bitter chill and associated bugs and critters out and cozy warmth in. It will also help save time and aggravation come spring.
Get out the ladder, and start at the top. Clean out the gutters, and repair or replace any that are leaky, sagging, or misaligned. Be sure to look at the fascia behind the gutters for signs of rotted wood or other indications of water damage from old or improperly installed gutters.
Depending on the level of damage, repairing it can become a big project—one that definitely should be done while the weather is still warm.
A Robust Roof
Next, step off the ladder onto the roof to give it a thorough inspection. Scrutinize the shingles, replacing any missing, damaged, or loose ones, and look at the flashing (sheet metal that prevents leaks around chimneys and other roof penetrations) for bent or rusted sections, as well as for cracks in aged, dried-out sealant. Pay particular attention to valleys (the interior angles where two roof facets meet that allow water to properly drain off the roof), and clean them of any accumulated debris. Don’t hesitate; make repairs now as needed. While you’re up there, look for indications of animal intrusion and for any potential areas where they might try to sneak in.
Unwanted Housemates
All of the things about the home that make it so warm and inviting to us also make it equally appealing to critters. All that they need is a small opening, so let’s not give them one, nor a highway to heaven in the form of a convenient overhanging tree branch. Trimming back overhanging branches gives the added bonus of removing the concern of the branches snapping from the weight of snow or otherwise damaging the roof during a storm. Critters can get in through the smallest openings, which is why it’s doubly important to leave no loose shingles, damaged flashing, or unrepaired, loose, or rotted fascia.Damaged chimney caps are a popular way for everything from rodents to raccoons—and even bats—to get in. Replace the damaged caps immediately. Consider specially designed critter guards for other roof penetrations as well. These are available for just about everything, including models that install on the sides of solar panels to close the gap between the panels and the roof. Some more advanced options for serious critter control include installing slippery metal squirrel guards so that they can’t climb on nearby poles and tree trunks, and downspout collars to deter determined raccoons that might use the convenient gutter system to get up on the roof. And, of course, trim back or remove plants and climbing vines that can be used for roof access.
Seal It Tight
Give the rest of the home’s exterior the same detailed inspection as the roof. Start by checking the siding for cracks or gaps that will increase heating costs through heat loss and also provide an access point for critters or bugs. Small holes or gaps can be caulked, but larger damage may require new siding material. Paint the repairs when they’re done; it’ll look better and shield the new material from the winter elements. Similarly, repair cracks in a stucco exterior or exposed concrete or cinder block foundation and get the added bonus of protection against water intrusion that could freeze and thus enlarge the crack.Inspect plumbing (hose spigots!), plus all penetrations for electrical, cable television, air conditioning ducts, and all other exterior wall penetrations, using caulk to seal small gaps. Foam sealant may be required for larger openings and around windows and doors. Determined or desperate rodents have been known to chew through foam sealants, so if they’re a serious concern, fill small holes with steel wool first, use lath screen for larger areas, or, if applicable, make the repair with cement.
Windows leaks—particularly those inside the window unit itself—are often not visible to the naked eye. There are three methods to find these nefarious energy thieves. The easiest is to run a hand around the window to feel for cold spots. Running a candle around the window gives a more visual check, as the flame should flicker in a draft. The ultimate test is to rent a thermal camera, or if you’re going to be using it a lot, purchase a thermal imaging attachment, such as Seek Thermal, for your smartphone. As long as the windows are in good condition, caulk and weatherstripping should do the job effectively without breaking the bank.
For those in extremely cold temperatures, or if the windows are old and replacement isn’t in the budget, there are window shrink wrap kits that use a standard hair dryer to seal the special removable film in place. The longer-term solution is a reusable heavy-duty window insulation film that’s cut to size and held in place with magnetic strips. All of this will help keep you toasty warm.
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While You’re Outside
Autumn is the last chance to do exterior projects before the cold weather makes them unpleasant, so let’s make the most of it.Light the Way
Whether security is a concern or one simply wants to see where they’re walking on icy, snowy days that get dark too early, now is the time to improve the lighting design or even simply increase the bulb wattage (being sure not to exceed the fixture’s recommended maximum).
