Winter is right around the corner, and it is time to start thinking about what you need to do to prepare your home. Fortunately, your friends at Steely and Smith have just the thing for you featured in this blog. Keep reading to learn a few techniques to winterize your home for the upcoming winter season. Don’t forget that Steely and Smith can also help you with all of your insurance needs. On with the blog.

1. Exterior doors – Small cracks can lead to big problems. Heat escapes through these small cracks, raising your utility bills. Using draft guards can cut down on these problems easily.

2. Exterior water lines – Unless you live in a fairly warm climate, you need to turn off these exterior water lines. Clear your hoses of extra water and put them away until the spring.

3. Gaps – Any gap, including the gaps from exterior doors means money out the proverbial, or in this case literal, window. Find and close gaps quickly.

4. Gutters – Gutter trash can hold water, which can turn to ice and cause serious problems. It is likely in your best interest to leave gutter cleaning to a professional – better safe than injured.

5. Roof inspection – Again, look to the professionals for this. You likely do not know what to look for or at, so having your roof checked by a professional roofer is the best solution. It may cost a few dollars, but it is worth the peace of mind.

6. Trimming trees and bushes – When the sap runs back down the trees and bushes is the time to trim them back for regrowth in the spring. Extra weight on the limbs from ice can be dangerous. All the more reason to trim back your trees.

7. Be ready – Serious storms can cause havoc, so be ready for any emergency. It may seem paranoid to think this way, but it can pay off in dividends in the long run.

There you have it. Seven good suggestions for the upcoming winter and how to be ready for it. Meanwhile, be sure to let us at Steely and Smith know if you have any insurance needs. We look forward to helping you.

Call Steely and Smith at (215) 345-9410 if you have questions about your insurance needs.