Hi, neighbor! Winter has arrived, and here in North Carolina, you never know what to expect. Some years it’s chilly mornings, and other years we’re shoveling snow off the driveway. No matter what, it’s always a good idea to be prepared. Here are some friendly tips from your favorite property management company to help you winterize your home and stay comfy and safe when the temperatures drop.
1. Check for Drafts and Seal Them Up
Let’s keep that warm air where it belongs - inside your home. Here’s how:
- Look at Your Windows and Doors: Got any gaps or cracks? A little caulk or weatherstripping can do wonders.
- Test for Drafts: Hold a candle near windows or doors. If it flickers, you’ve found a spot to seal.
- Install Door Sweeps: These go at the bottom of your doors and block out that pesky cold air. In a pinch? Roll up a blanket.
2. Get Your Heat Ready
A cozy home starts with a well-working heating system. Here’s what to do:
- Call in the Pros: Schedule an HVAC tune-up to make sure your furnace or heat pump is good to go.
- Swap Out Filters: Clean filters mean your system works better and keeps your bills lower.
- Check Your Chimney: If you’ve got a fireplace, make sure the chimney is clean and safe to use.
3. Add Some Extra Insulation
Keeping the heat inside is the name of the game. A few quick fixes can make a big difference:
- Insulate Your Attic and Crawl Space: These are key areas where heat likes to escape.
- Wrap Your Pipes: Foam pipe insulation can save you from frozen pipe headaches later.
- Seal Up the Attic: Check for gaps and cracks where warm air might sneak out.
4. Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are no fun. Let’s avoid that:
- Turn Off Outdoor Faucets: Disconnect and drain those garden hoses, and shut off outdoor water supplies.
- Let Faucets Drip: When it’s freezing outside, a slow drip keeps water flowing and pipes happy. Keeping your cabinets open will also help prevent freezing by allowing the heat in!
- Locate Your Water Shut-Off Valve: If a pipe does burst, you’ll be glad you know this.
5. Stock Up on Essentials
Winter weather can surprise us, so it’s smart to be prepared:
- Emergency Kit: Flashlights, batteries, blankets, and some snacks will come in handy.
- Salt or Sand: Keep walkways and driveways safe from ice.
- Backup Heat: Whether it’s a portable heater or extra firewood, a little backup can go a long way.
6. Tidy Up Outside
Your home’s exterior needs some love too:
- Clean Out Gutters: Leaves and debris can lead to ice dams, and nobody wants that.
- Trim Overhanging Branches: Ice and snow can make them heavy enough to break, so trim them back now.
- Inspect Your Roof: Check for any loose shingles or areas that might need repair.
Winter in North Carolina can be unpredictable, but a little prepping goes a long way. Taking these steps now means a cozy, worry-free season later. If you need a hand or have questions, don’t hesitate to ask—that’s what neighbors are for. Stay warm out there!
As the chill approaches, we're here to help you prepare your home, rental, or vacant property to handle the icy temperatures. Whether you need tips on winterizing or personalized advice, our team is ready with knowledgeable recommendations and trusted vendors we count on for our own properties.
Have questions? Reach out to us at www.park-properties.com for expert guidance. Let’s keep your home safe and secure during this cold snap. We’re just a call or message away!
Your Park Team
Nicole Galiger, Shannon Stark, and Errin Humbert
Park Real Estate Management
www.park-properties.com
919-444-2204
