With the last of the warm, sunny days in Napa County, it can be hard to imagine the cooler months ahead. This comprehensive checklist covers everything from preparing for the first rains to inspecting your heating system and sealing drafts to ensure your property is prepared for winter.
As we enjoy the last of the warm, sunny days in Napa County, with temperatures that can still feel like summer, the changing season serves as a gentle reminder to prepare our homes for the cooler temperatures and, most importantly, the rain that defines our winter. While we can still enjoy our beautiful autumn days, being proactive now will protect your home and ensure it remains a cozy sanctuary all season.
Here is a comprehensive checklist to help you get your home in top shape for the winter ahead, keeping our specific local climate in mind.
Exterior & Roof: Preparing for the Wet Season
Clean Gutters and Downspouts: With the occasional showers expected to turn into heavier rains, clogged gutters can lead to serious damage. Now is the time to remove any leaves and debris to ensure water can drain away from your home's foundation.
Inspect Your Roof: A quick check for loose or cracked shingles can save you a significant headache during a winter storm. Given our often wet winters, a small repair now can prevent a major leak.
Trim Tree Branches: Take a look at the trees and shrubs near your home. Trim any dead or weak branches that could fall and cause damage during a windy rainstorm.
Repair Walkways: Repair any cracks or uneven sections on walkways, driveways, and steps to prevent hazards once the weather turns slick.
Touch Up Exterior Paint: Applying a fresh coat of paint or sealer to your siding and trim can protect your home's exterior and prolong its life.
Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture: Clean and dry your patio furniture before storing it in a dry place to protect it from the elements.
Interior & Energy: Staying Warm and Efficient
Seal Windows and Doors: A key to staying comfortable and keeping your utility bills in check is preventing drafts. Check all windows and doors for air leaks and apply weatherstripping or caulk where needed.
Service Your Heating System: Before the temperatures really drop in November and December, schedule a professional tune-up for your furnace or HVAC system. This ensures it's running efficiently and reliably when you need it most. Also, remember to clean or replace your furnace filter.
Reverse Your Ceiling Fans: Switch the direction of your ceiling fans to a clockwise rotation. This will push warm air down and circulate it more efficiently, allowing you to lower your thermostat and save on energy costs.
Inspect Fireplace & Chimney: Have your chimney professionally inspected and cleaned to prevent buildup and ensure the flue is working properly before your first fire of the season.
Clean Your Dryer Vent: A clogged dryer vent is a fire hazard. Make sure to clean it thoroughly to ensure proper airflow.
Plumbing & Landscape
Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: To prevent a burst pipe, disconnect all garden hoses from outdoor faucets. Drain the hoses and store them away for the season. You can also use styrofoam faucet covers for extra protection.
Drain Irrigation Systems: If your home has an irrigation system, be sure to properly drain it before the first freeze to prevent pipes from cracking.
Prep Your Lawn: Rake leaves, aerate, and fertilize your lawn, trees, and shrubs to prepare them for winter.
Check on and Maintain Outdoor Lighting: Ensure all outdoor lighting is functioning properly to provide safety and security during the darker months.
Safety
Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: With the change of seasons and the upcoming use of heating systems, it's a critical time to test your detectors and replace their batteries. It's also a good idea to inspect your fire extinguishers.
A little preparation now can give you peace of mind as the seasons change, ensuring your Napa Valley home is a warm and welcoming sanctuary all winter long.
