5 Essential Steps for West Seattle Homeowners to Prepare for Fall and Winter

9/20/2023 (Permalink)

Preparation is the key to ensuring a safe and comfortable fall and winter for homeowners in West Seattle.

Fall and winter bring a unique set of challenges for homeowners in West Seattle. As the seasons change, it's important to ensure that your home is ready to withstand the colder temperatures, heavy rainfall, and potential storm damage that can occur. In this blog, we'll discuss five essential steps that homeowners in West Seattle can take to prepare their homes for the upcoming fall and winter seasons. And, if your home does experience storm damage, remember that SERVPRO® is here to help with storm damage repair and board-up services.

1. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

One of the first steps in preparing your home for fall and winter is to inspect and clean your gutters. Leaves and debris can accumulate in your gutters during the fall, causing blockages that can lead to water damage and ice dams when temperatures drop. Make sure your gutters are clear of debris and properly attached to your home to ensure that rainwater is directed away from your foundation.

2. Check and Service Your Heating System

Before the temperatures drop significantly, it's crucial to check and service your heating system. A well-maintained furnace or heating system will not only keep your home warm and comfortable but also help you save on energy bills. Consider scheduling a professional HVAC inspection to clean and service your system, ensuring it operates efficiently throughout the colder months.

3. Seal Gaps and Cracks

As temperatures plummet, any gaps or cracks in your home's exterior can lead to drafts and higher heating costs. Inspect your doors, windows, and exterior walls for any gaps or cracks, and seal them with caulk or weatherstripping. This simple step will keep your home cozy and reduce energy waste.

4. Prepare Your Home for Storms

Storms can be a common occurrence during fall and winter in West Seattle. To prepare your home for potential storm damage, consider these actions:

• Trim overhanging branches that could fall onto your home during high winds.
• Secure outdoor furniture and loose objects to prevent them from becoming projectiles.
• Ensure your roof is in good condition and that any loose shingles are repaired.
• Invest in storm shutters or reinforced windows to protect against flying debris.

5. Insulate Your Pipes

Frozen pipes can lead to costly damage and inconvenience. To prevent this, insulate your exposed pipes, especially those in unheated areas like attics, basements, and crawlspaces. You can use pipe insulation or heat tape to protect against freezing temperatures.

Contact SERVPRO for Storm Damage Repair and Board-Up Needs

Despite your best efforts, sometimes nature can take its course, and your home may experience storm damage. In such cases, SERVPRO is here to help. Our experienced professionals can quickly respond to your storm damage repair needs and provide expert board-up services to protect your home from further damage until repairs can be made.

Preparation is the key to ensuring a safe and comfortable fall and winter for homeowners in West Seattle. By following these five essential steps, you can minimize the risk of damage to your home and ensure it remains a warm and secure haven during the colder months. And if disaster does strike, remember that SERVPRO is just a phone call away to assist with storm damage repair and board-up services. Stay safe and cozy this fall and winter season!