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When winter comes, homeowners think of comfort improvements. Property experts, on the other hand, think of the winter as the time to do preventive maintenance. A home ready for winter ensures a safe, warm, and dry environment. It also preserves the value of a home in the long run. Preparing for the winter, here are the most practical, efficient, and forward-thinking expert recommendations.

1. Inspect And Seal Air Leaks  

Start by checking the windows, doors, and joints in the walls for gaps. Even the smallest of gaps can cause the loss of heat and lead to higher energy costs. Weather stripping, sealants, and foam insulation will keep the cold out. Even a small improvement in energy efficiency will add to the comfort of the home, which is important for the valuation of a home.

2. Service Heating And Electrical Systems  

Homes heating and cooling and electrics systems require annual servicing prior to winter. This involves cleaning filters, checking thermostats, and testing wiring. If you use space heaters, ensure the circuits can safely handle the load. Eliminating the potential for emergencies and extending the life of these expensive systems will reduce long-term repair costs.

3. Roof And Drainage Audit

Most people will only check a roof and gutter system when a leak is visible. Such an approach can be costly when it comes to repairs. Look for cracked tiles and blocked gutters, and check for damage to flushing, all of which can cause seepage and dampness. Early repairs will save the home from deteriorating. Such deterioration will impact resale value severely, along with the inspections.

4. Improve Insulation For Energy Efficiency

Effective insulation is not a luxury anymore, it is an investment. Insulating attics and wall panels, and adding thermal window films, can remarkably cut down on heat loss. By 2025, with the increasing awareness of sustainable housing, well-insulated units will become a primary demand for buyers and renters.

5. Provide Plumbing Protection

When temperatures are cold, pipes can shrink and burst. It is crucial to insulate pipes, especially those that sit on exterior walls or open balconies. Plumbing checks to prevent water damage save expensive repairs after winter as well.

6. Ensure Smoke And Carbon Monoxide Detectors Are Functioning

With the winter season’s increased use of heating systems and fireplaces, safety checks become paramount. Test all detectors and if necessary, replace batteries. The peace of mind that comes with an optimally functioning safety set up is a compliance benefit if you have safety inspections on your property.

7. Repaint And Reseal

Exterior walls and paint endure the most change with the season. If there is any peeling, cracking or general fading that you can see, you will want to schedule any repainting or resealing prior to winter moisture setting in. Seasonal changes will directly affect curb appeal and changing paint and sealants will protect the property from mold and dampness.

8. Improper Lighting And Poor Ventilation

With less daylight in the winter months, your lighting will need to be improved with the changing season. Old fixtures should be replaced with new energy star rated LED lighting and adequate ventilation should be put in place for condensation control. Breathe ease moisture and air flow will be maintained with balanced light. [[ This is very important in the longevity of the property

9. Arrange For A Professional Property Inspection  

To round up the winter prep you should schedule a property inspection. These audits focus on the oversight of the structure, moisture, electrical and plumbing of the property, to identify any concerns that may be flagged by the homeowner. These inspections have now become essential to the property’s structure and maintaining the value of the property as an asset.

A home prepared for winter goes beyond providing warmth to your home. It also involves protecting your investment.  In the winter months, the steps you take with regard to insulation and inspection become efficiency, safety, and sustainability factors that contribute to the evolving nature of real estate.  

The author, Gunjan Goel, is the Director, Goel Ganga Developments.