Getting your home ready for the trials of Old Man Winter can save your house and your bank account. This is especially important for a room with as much exposure to the cold as the basement. Here are four ways to prepare your basement for winter.
Service the Heating System
Few things that could befall a homeowner are worse than a heating system going out in the middle of a cold snap. Having your system serviced before winter can extend the life span of your heater and prevent your family from freezing in the house while you’re waiting for a repair.
Seal Cracks and Leaks
Taking a walk around the outside of your house and sealing any cracks or leaks in the foundation is essential. Afterward, walk through the basement to complete the process all over again from the inside. If you don’t take care of leaks, they could allow moisture into your home, resulting in flooding and mold. This process can also prevent your climate control system from working overtime to remove the excess moisture.
Winterize the Pipes
Another possible cause of damage from moisture is burst pipes. You can do many things to winterize your pipes. By taking these precautions, you can avoid flooding and damage to any valuables in the basement. If you do suspect a leak, call a plumber to handle the damage before it becomes too much.
Clean the Area
The last method for how to prepare your basement for winter is to keep the space as clean as possible. Cleaning limits the opportunity for water to spread and ruin your belongings. It also makes it easier for you to locate an issue if one does arrive during the winter. You should also clean the outside area around the foundation of your home. This will prevent overgrown vegetation from damaging your foundation and causing a mold infestation.