Winter can be a challenging season for homes, especially in Tasmania. Poor maintenance during the colder months can lead to costly repairs.
Blocked gutters can cause water damage to your roof and walls, while unsealed windows and doors can result in increased heating costs and discomfort, but what can be done? Here are some essential winter maintenance tips to help you manage your home during the colder months and prevent expensive damage and bring utility costs down.
1. Inspect and Seal Windows and Doors
Cold air can seep through gaps in windows and doors, leading to increased heating costs and discomfort. Inspect these areas for drafts and seal any gaps with weather stripping or caulk. This simple step can enhance energy efficiency and keep your home warmer.
2. Check Your Heating System
Ensure your heating system is in good working order before winter sets in. In Tasmania, this often means checking your heat pump or wood fire. Schedule a professional inspection to clean and service your heating system. Replace filters regularly if you use a heat pump, and clean out your chimney if you use a wood fire.
3. Protect Your Floors
Winter weather can be tough on floors, especially with the increased risk of water and mud being tracked indoors. Place high-quality mats at entrances to reduce dirt and moisture. For hardwood floors, consider adding rugs to protect against scratches and wear.
4. Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Tasmania can experience heavy rain and occasional snow in winter. Inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles and have them repaired promptly. Clean out gutters to prevent blockages, which can cause water to back up and damage your home’s interior.
5. Prevent Pipe Freezing
While Tasmania doesn’t often experience extreme cold, it’s still wise to insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements and attics. On particularly cold nights, keep a slow trickle of water running through taps to prevent freezing.
6. Maintain Outdoor Areas
Clear walkways and driveways of leaves and debris to prevent slips and falls. Use sand or gravel for added traction. If you have a wooden deck, remove debris regularly to prevent moisture damage and inspect for any signs of rot or deterioration.
7. Check Insulation
Proper insulation is key to maintaining a warm home and reducing energy costs. Inspect attic insulation and add consider insulating your flooring, if possible. Insulating your hot water heater and pipes can also improve efficiency.
8. Prepare for Storms
Winter storms can cause power outages and other emergencies. Keep an emergency kit with essentials like flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and non-perishable food. Ensure you have a backup heat source, such as a wood fire or portable gas heater.
9. Monitor Indoor Humidity
Winter air can be dry, leading to discomfort and potential damage to wood floors and furniture. Use a humidifier to maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50%. This can help preserve your floor coverings and enhance overall comfort.
10. Regularly Clean and Maintain Floors
Dirt and grit can act as abrasives on your floors. Regularly sweep and mop to keep them clean. Use floor cleaners appropriate for your specific floor type to avoid damage.
By following these winter maintenance tips, you can protect your home and ensure it remains cosy and inviting throughout the season. At Expera, we care about our community and would rather see our neighbours save money through correct maintenance than face expensive repairs.
Is your home feeling a bit tired and in need of rejuvenation? Contact Expera today to discuss how we can bring new life to your living spaces.
