Winter is the ideal time to tackle all those indoor tasks you've been putting off during the rest of the year. This is the time to get ready for the cold and snow and give the interior of your home some TLC!
Install extra insulation. Plastic sheeting is available from home improvement stores for windows requiring extra protection from the wind. Check exterior doors for air streams and add weather stripping around them if necessary.
Prepare for snow. Make sure your shovel or snowblower is in good condition and easily accessible. If necessary, prepare a rock salt-sand mixture to de-ice the driveway.
Patch and paint. This is the ideal time to inspect interior walls and ceilings for holes or cracks. Patch and paint as necessary but remember to paint when weather will allow you to open a window for ventilation. Watch for bubbling or cracking, which could indicate water damage.
Repair indoor woodwork. Check interior doors and hinges for damage and repair if needed. Fill any holes or damaged areas with wood putty, then sand and refinish the surface. After sanding, you should check your furnace filter in case it needs to be replaced.
Maintain appliances. Unplug the refrigerator and clean both interior and exterior thoroughly with soap and hot water. Pull away from the wall and vacuum the condenser coil in the back or bottom of the refrigerator for better energy efficiency. If the drain pan is removable, clean it in soapy water. Clean the inside of the dishwasher, the stove exhaust fan, the inside of the oven, and the microwave.
Inspect bathroom caulking. Remove and replace crumbling caulk around the bathtub, sink, or toilet. Make sure no moisture is leaking under the bathtub or shower stall. If your shower stall is lined with ceramic tile, check for any "give" which may indicate moisture has seeped behind the tiles. You may need to replace tiles and repair the drywall underneath.
Protect pipes from freezing. Insulate any water pipes that are exposed to extreme cold (check pipes on the north side of house particularly). Cover outdoor water faucets. The water flow to outside faucets should be turned off and outdoor faucets left in the "on" position to allow for complete drainage.
Plan home improvement projects. Make your "to do" list for next spring and summer. Plan and budget major home improvement projects, such as painting the exterior of the house, building a patio, or making landscape changes. Check with your local building department to see if your projects require permits. In late winter, call contractors to submit bids.
Clean and organize the basement. Sweep the floor and clear out cobwebs. Check stored items for moisture damage. Build or purchase storage shelves if needed. Tidy up work areas. Start your garden with flower and vegetable seeds in seed trays under lights. |