Winter is a wonderful time of year and the opportunity to spend it in your mountain home can be magical!
Photos by: Unsplash
Pure snow, cozy warm evenings by the fireplace are the alpha and omega in winter. But to really enjoy your time in a winter wonderland home, it's a good idea to complete a home maintenance checklist to keep your family safe and keep your home in top shape for the coming winter season. Stocking up on essential supplies and checking that the home is in good condition are some of the most important things to consider before spending time in a mountain home.
Below are a few things to put on your checklist before planning a winter vacation in the mountains.
Get essential supplies
You have to stock up on supplies that you will need during your stay in your home on the mountain. It is important to provide it with the essentials for heating, maintenance and the like to make your stay there more comfortable and safe. You may also want to consider supplying gasoline in case you run out of fuel in your car, as well as tools and power generators for portable and backup power.
You must follow the appropriate regulations as it is a flammable liquid which can be extremely dangerous if improperly handled. the best way to transport gasoline would be to take the necessary precautions and follow OSHA and DOT regulations for safe gasoline transport to protect you and those around you. Also, make sure you know the standards that apply to your situation when determining what type of safety canister to use to carry gasoline.
Preparations outdoors
There are a few things that should be done before winter starts, including removing trees, cleaning the driveway, and so on. Aging trees can be quite dangerous, especially for mountain homes. The best time to remove trees that have grown too tall and can fall on your home is in late winter and early spring while they are dormant. Also, think about protecting outer pipes from the weather, as sub-zero temperatures can cause them serious problems.
Check the roof and clean the gutters. To avoid ice dams, keep the roof at the same temperature by increasing ventilation and adding insulation. Drain the taps outdoors to avoid freezing, and don't forget to put a snow shovel on each door. Fill holes and ruts in the driveway and remove debris and large stones. The driveway should be accessible in case you have to drive off despite a lot of snow.
Check the house
First, check the windows and doors for drafts and leaks. Weatherproof doors and windows to keep the cold out of your home. Leaks and cracks can also lead to increased heating costs. Consider weatherproof Your doors and windows to fix minor leaks, but if the problems are severe you may want to replace them. Clean the vents and sweep the chimney to prevent house fires and carbon monoxide poisoning.
Another very important home maintenance is keeping up with the efficiency of your heating system. Cover the HVAC system to prevent damage from dirt and moisture. If you are using an oven, you will need to clean the air filters and ducts, or remember to replace them if necessary. Don't forget to thoroughly check the entire house to make sure it is winter safe.
Be prepared for any weather
If you live in a mountain home, you have to be prepared if there are any Snowstorm at the horizon. Pay attention to the weather to allow time to prepare, and have your home and car emergency kits ready. Make sure your car has a full gas tank in case you need to leave. Portable generators are essential in the event of a power failure. Remember to buy salt, sand, or ice before the first snowfall. This also helps with shoveling the driveway and sidewalk.
Cold weather can wreak havoc on your home, so think about protecting it by completing the home maintenance checklist before the cold sets in. Consider insulating the exposed pipes in the attic and basement to prevent bursting and make sure your sump pump is working properly. Also, insulate walls and ceilings to prevent condensation and clean the gutters to prevent damage.
Final thoughts
It is very important that your mountain home is winterized to stay safe and cozy during your stay. While there are many things to check on your maintenance list, you will be happy to do so as you will not have any problems. Before going there with family and friends, don't forget to stock up on essential supplies, scan the whole house and prepare for a blizzard.
