Prepare Your Home and Yard for Winter: A Step-by-Step Guide

As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, it's time to start preparing your home and yard for winter. A bit of maintenance now can prevent costly repairs and save you from chilly mishaps down the road. Here are some key tasks to tackle before winter hits, and remember Baker's Ace Hardware in Monroe, MI, has all the tools and supplies you'll need to make these jobs quick and easy!

Seal Windows and Doors

Keeping the cold air out and the warm air in can save on heating costs and make your home cozier all winter long. Drafts around windows and doors are common culprits for heat loss, so a quick inspection can make a big difference in your home's energy efficiency.

• Inspect all windows and doors for drafts. Hold a candle or a lighter near the edges on a windy day - if the flame flickers, air is getting in.
• Apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps. Self-adhesive foam weatherstripping is great for doors, and caulk works well for windows. Be sure to choose a caulk rated for outdoor use.
• Check for any broken or cracked glass in windows and replace as needed to improve insulation and energy efficiency. 

Clean Out Gutters and Downspouts

When gutters are clogged with leaves and debris, rain and melting snow have nowhere to go and can freeze in place, leading to ice dams and roof damage. Cleaning out your gutters ensures that water can flow freely away from your home, protecting your roof, siding, and foundation.

• Clear out leaves and debris from your gutters to prevent clogs. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze, leading to ice dams and roof damage.
• Use a hose to flush out any remaining dirt and test that downspouts are flowing properly. If needed, install downspout extensions to direct water away from your home's foundation.
• Inspect your gutters for any loose brackets and tighten them. Consider adding gutter guards to help keep debris out all season.

Store Lawn Furniture and Equipment

Outdoor furniture and tools are investments worth protecting. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can damage surfaces, cause rust, and lead to equipment malfunctions. Storing or covering outdoor items ensures they'll be ready to use next season.

• Clean and dry patio furniture before storing it to prevent rust and mildew. Stack chairs and tables in a shed or garage, or cover them securely with furniture covers.
• Drain gas from lawnmower and other power tools, or add a fuel stabilizer if storing them with fuel. Clean and sharpen mower blades and other cutting tools to be ready for spring.
• Organize tools and gardening supplies in storage bins or shelves to keep everything tidy and accessible for when the snow melts.

Winterize Outdoor Water Sources

Exposed pipes and outdoor water sources can freeze and burst in winter weather, causing costly damage and water wastage. Draining and insulating them protects your plumbing and keeps water from freezing in unexpected places.

• Drain garden hoses and store them indoors or in a shed to prevent freezing and cracking.
• Turn off exterior water valves to prevent water from freezing in pipes. After turning off the water supply, open each faucet to let any remaining water drain out.
• Insulate any exposed pipes or faucets with pipe insulation or faucet covers. This simple step can prevent pipes from freezing and bursting. 

Protect Trees and Shrubs

Snow, ice, and cold winds can damage plants if they aren't protected. Pruning, mulching, and covering your plants ensures they're insulated and helps them survive the winter, looking healthy and ready to grow in spring.

• Prune any dead or weak branches to prevent breakage from heavy snow. Cut branches at a slight angle to promote healthy regrowth in the spring.
• Apply mulch around the base of plants, trees, and shrubs to help retain moisture and regulate soil temperature. Be sure to leave space around the trunks to avoid rot.
• For sensitive plants, consider wrapping them in burlap or covering them with plant covers. This adds an extra layer of protection against the cold.

Prepare Your Snow Removal Equipment

The last thing you want is to be caught in a snowstorm with a broken snowblower or worn-out shovel. Inspecting and prepping your equipment now means you'll be ready to tackle any snowstorm that comes your way.

• Check your snowblower's oil, spark plugs, and fuel levels. Start it up to ensure it's working correctly before the first big snowfall.
• Keep a supply of ice melt or rock salt ready to treat your walkways and driveway. Be sure to store it in a dry place to avoid clumping.
• Inspect your shovels for cracks or wear. Consider picking up a new snow shovel with an ergonomic handle to make clearing snow easier on your back.

Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Cold weather means closed windows and increased use of heating systems, which can raise the risk of carbon monoxide buildup. Testing your detectors ensures that you and your family will be alerted to any smoke or gas emergencies in time.

• Check the batteries in all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace them if needed.
• Test each detector by pressing the "test" button. If any devices are outdated or malfunctioning, replace them immediately for safety.
• Remember to install a carbon monoxide detector near your furnace and in any room where a space heater will be used.

Preparing your home and yard for winter doesn't have to be a chore when you have the right supplies and support. For all your seasonal home and yard care needs, visit Baker's Ace Hardware in Monroe, MI. We're here to help you stay warm, safe, and ready for winter!