Audrey 
Homes are kept alive and thriving by people. They go downhill quickly if they are not given attention by the people. If you live in areas where winter is harsh, some maintenance of your house will be helpful in the dreadful season. The modern architecture provided by Newstart Homes is prone to dealing with the weather but some considerations go a long way.
1. Check the Heating System:
Most heating systems last for 12-15 years depending upon maintenance. Before winter winds start blowing hard, at least check and change the filters of the system. Get your system checked by a contractor for a smooth winter or get an annual maintenance agreement with a company. It is better to find problems right now and have them fixed before the weather changes.
2. Insulate Pipes:
Any pipe that is exposed or runs along the wall is a hazard because the water inside can freeze. It can cause the bursting of the pipe when the temperature falls below 32 degrees Fahrenheit. To prevent these series of events from occurring, insulate your pipes. It is simple enough by wrapping the pipe insulation around the pipe and fixing it with duct tape.
3. Seal the Hard Surfaces:
If your driveway, patio, or walkways are concrete, ensure their protection. Apply a concrete sealer at some intervals to prevent cracks. All concrete surfaces eventually get cracked but the cracking can be limited by control joints. Fill in the cracks before applying the sealer or water will freeze in the cracks.
If your driveway is asphalt, seal it as well. Getting the sealing done by a company is not too expensive or you can buy a bucket or sealer and apply it with a roller.
4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
Winter is the season in which more fires happen due to the use of heating systems and firewood. During winter, the doors and windows are kept tightly closed to prevent any stray wind from entering the house. It can cause an accumulation of carbon monoxide released from the fire. So, check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and renew their batteries to lessen the hazard. If you do not have CO detectors in your home, it is smart to get some. Make sure that your furnace and water heater are properly ventilated because these cause the most fires.
5. Shut Down the Pool:
If you have a pool in your home, make sure it is properly shut down before the winters hit, it is worth the cost of getting professional help in this matter. Fall is a good time to hire a contractor and gets your pool hefty maintenance because in spring the contractors are busy.
A proper shutdown of the sprinkler system is also very important. The system requires the lines to be blown out. It is better to cut it down properly than to replace the lines with new ones next year. The outside faucet system is completely unprotected and the water will freeze in it in the winter which can cause flooding of the basement. It is better to drain the line before winters start.
