Ask the Expert: How Should Homeowners Prepare Their Home for Winter?

Q: What can homeowners do to ensure their home is well prepared and more energy-efficient throughout the coming months?

A: While winter is fast approaching, HomeTeam Inspection Service—the only national home inspection company to utilize a team of inspectors onsite—offers the following tips for homeowners as they prepare for the colder months ahead.

• Inspect around windows and doors for cracks, and seal any openings with caulk or weatherstripping to prevent air and water from getting in your home.
• Have a professional evaluate the amount of insulation in your home to ensure it’s properly insulated and will keep your energy costs down.
• Replace batteries in smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they’re working properly.
• Visibly check the fireplace opening for loose or missing bricks and have screens in place to protect from any embers that may escape.
• Look for raised, loose or missing shingles, which can allow water to get in, and replace if needed.
• Remove hoses from outside spigots and store for the winter months.
• Clean debris from gutters to prevent water from collecting and freezing. 
• Make sure all downspouts are pointed away from the foundation.
• Have the HVAC units inspected and change furnace filters monthly for maximum energy efficiency and cleaner air.
• Program thermostats to lower temperatures while at work or sleeping.

 These simple steps can help homeowners maintain the health of their home over the winter months.

For more information, please visit www.hometeam.com.

RISMEDIA, Tuesday, December 06, 2016— Today’s Ask the Expert column features Buddy Stark, director of Operations for HomeTeam Inspection Service.