6 Home DIY Projects to Tackle Before it Gets Too Cold

The autumn chill has started to creep in. The days are growing shorter. Now is a good time to tackle projects that will help ensure your home stays warm and safe throughout the fall and winter. After all, if anyone understands the importance of home safety, it’s firefighters.

Here are six projects to complete before the temperature really drops:

Inspect and Repair Your Roof 

Check your roof for loose or damaged shingles. Apply roof repair glue to any loose shingles to prevent leaks and damage. Then consider having a professional take a look to confirm everything is intact. If repairs are needed, some hardware stores may offer installation services — schedule these before temperatures drop too much.

Shut Off Exterior Faucets

Complete this project before the temperature dips below freezing: Turn off all exterior faucets, and drain water from outdoor taps, hoses, pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads to prevent freezing and bursting. Installing frost-proof faucets can also be a good preventive measure.

Install Heating Cables 

Prevent damage from ice dams and freezing by installing roof heating cables. Ensure your eavestroughs and roof are clean before setting up the cables. Use roof cable clips to secure the cables in a zigzag pattern, then attach the cables and connect them to the power supply.

Seal Gaps and Cracks 

Sealing gaps around your windows and doors while the weather is still (relatively) warm helps keep your home cozy and energy-efficient during the winter. Apply caulking to gaps wider than a nickel around siding and frames, smoothing it with your finger or a wet caulk-smoothing tool within two to five minutes of application.

Clean and Guard Your Gutters 

Ensure gutters are clean to allow water to flow freely from your roof, which prevents clogs and ice buildup. The weight from ice buildup could cause your gutters to sag. Installing gutter guards can help keep leaves and debris out, reducing the need for maintenance.

Weatherstrip Your Windows and Doors 

Weatherstripping is an effective way to keep out cold air and keep the cost of heating your home on the lower end. To find drafts, wet your hand and run it along door seams or window casings. Use door sweeps and adhesive-backed insulation foam to block drafts even more.

By wrapping up these projects, you’ll help keep your home safe and comfortable through the colder months.