Tuesday, January 21, 2014

Protect Your Northern Virginia Home from Winter Weather


There's no doubt, the weather is frightful out there with a winter storm in full effect. If you're stuck at home, you may have been wondering if there are steps you can take to protect your Northern Virginia homes this winter, especially from the harsh cold temperatures. Yes, there are! Whether you've just purchased this home as a first-time homebuyer or you're a long-time homeowner in the NoVA and DC areas, the following steps can help you protect your home before the winter taks a toll on the property.
Keep Your Pipes Warm
Winter weather can cause homes in Alexandria, Arlington, Falls Church, Fairfax City, or McLean (as well as their owners!) to endure expensive repairs this time of year, many of which come from burst pipes. Take note— the rest of your home may be warm, but the water in the pipes in other areas, like the attic, basement, crawl space and back of cabinets, can freeze. To keep your pipes from bursting, MSN Real Estate suggests to "wrap the pipes in the cold parts of your house in insulation, and open kitchen and bathroom cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes." You can also "let water drip slowly from the faucets to help keep the water flowing."


Protect the Outside of Your Home
You might have taken this precaution in the fall, but cleaning your gutters can really help to prevent water from backing up and freezing. Take a look at the downspouts and be sure the water is being routed away from your home, disconnect your garden hoses, and use weatherstripping or caulking to seal drafty windows and doors. You should also trim any low-hanging branches outside that might freeze and snap which can damage your home or nearby power lines.
Watch the Roof
The roofs of homes in Northern Virginia can become problematic during the winter season if not taken care of properly. If alot of snow accumulates, the roof can actually collapse, especially those over porches or additions. Average accumulations and dry snow will not typically have negatives affects on homes, but when heavy snow begins you can use a roof rake with a long handle to remove the snow while on the ground.


Think About a Generator
Before a big winter storm hits, consider buying a generator. While you may not have time now, it's something to keep in mind to protect Northern Virginia real estate for the long-haul of the winter season. " A generator can help keep your heat and power — as well as your sump pump and your fire and burglar alarms — running," stated MSN Real Estate. "It can help prevent frozen pipes and keep you a lot more comfortable, too." Winter weather can often cause power outages due to ice and wet snow, therefore an automatic standby generator can be useful. This type immediately turns on after a power outage and can even qualify you for a discount on your homeowners insurance.
Thinking of moving this winter? I'm here to help! I happily serve the areas of Alexandria, Annandale, Arlington, Burke, Centreville, Chantilly, Clifton, Fairfax City, Falls Church, Great Falls, Herndon, Lake Ridge, McLean, Mount Vernon, Reston, Rosslyn, Springfield, Tyson’s Corner and Vienna.


Earle Whitmore

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