subject: Should I Winterize My Home? [print this page] As temperatures begin to drop, many homeowners question the necessity of winterizations. This process is relatively cheap compared to the damage that may result from doing nothing. As a realtor in todays market, I have seen clients face thousands of dollars in avoidable repairs. As a realtor or buyer, you may have noticed winterized properties in all foreclosures and REOs. Banks realize the necessity of this step and dont want to risk damage to their investment. Some winterizing steps are not only necessary for vacant properties, but to also avoid everyday problems. If youre looking to winterize your property, we suggest that it be done by a professional plumber.
If your home is on the market, your buyer might require a de-winterization because a home inspection requires a home in full functionality. Carefully coordinate this operation with your realtor to ensure the property is quickly re-winterized before potential problems can occur.
Below you will find some the necessary steps for winterizing a property.
Turn off the water Since water is the number one cause of damage to a home, you could safely say this is the most important step. You should locate the main water shut off valve and turn it off. Drain the entire water supply system, faucets, and fixture shut off valves should be left open. Most people would then recommend having the water supply lines blown out with an air compressor. Once the water supply lines have been emptied, empty the toilets and fill them with non-toxic antifreeze rated for plumbing systems.
Inspect your Roof & Rain gutter
Thoroughly inspect your flashing to ensure water cannot enter the home. Replace all/any worn shingles or roof tiles. Clear any debris that may have filled the rain gutter to guarantee proper functionality and that water is running away from the foundation.
Fireplace If you chimney hasnt been cleaned for quite some time, get it professionally cleaned to eliminate soot and creosote. Check the mortar between the bricks and tuck point for cracks or other damage.
Outdoor Surfaces Seal concrete and wood surfaces. If its not sealed properly water can enter, freeze, and expand causing inevitable damage to the surface. Seal holes in the foundation and secure your crawlspace, so uninvited critters dont enter your house.
Heating Systems There are some furnaces that create a major amount of condensation from the water vapor. To avoid possible damage, these should be looked at. In respect to other types of heating systems, I would consult with a HVAC professional.
Electrical Turn off any unnecessary breakers and post a reminder note stating, Make sure the water is turned on before igniting the water heater or other appliances.
Appliances - Water also runs through many appliances such as the washing machine, dishwasher, and refrigerator. Many professionals would suggest draining and disconnecting these items for a proper winterization and pouring the necessary antifreeze into the bottom of the dishwasher and washing machine.
Post a Warning Make sure to post signs in conspicuous places stating that the property has been winterized and plumbing should not be used.
The cold is soon arriving, and these steps can lessen the threat to your real estate. Your home is the most valuable asset, dont risk it.
