During the winter, some homeowners choose to chill when it comes to chores. However, this may not be the best course of action during the “off-season.” Simply huddling up indoors can lead to hiccups later on down the road. Here are some homeowner mistakes to avoid in the winter.
Letting leaves pile up.
Letting fall leftovers linger in the lawn can spoil your yard in the spring. While your lawn may look dormant in the winter, its root system still thrives. Fallen foliage can strangle your yard, grow mildew, and kill your grass. That sets the stage for a sorry yard come springtime.
Leaving gardens unattended.
For wildlife, food is sometimes scarce in the winter. Gardens and other sensitive vegetation become prime targets. Pest-proofing your plants with wire mesh and repellent will help keep these hungry critters at bay.
Keeping the drapes closed.
One of the simplest homeowner mistakes to avoid in the winter is not letting light come into your home. Opening up the curtains during the day can naturally warm your home, giving your checkbook a needed break from the heating bill.
Neglecting your home’s air.
Humidity. In the summer, it’s overwhelming. In the winter, it’s relieving. Using a humidifier will leave your home feeling warmer. More humidity in your home will also help combat dry skin, relieve sore throats, and ward off wood and furniture damage.
Forgetting to program your thermostat.
Homeowners tend to set the thermostat and then leave it alone. That’s where costs can creep up. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homeowners can save up to 10 percent a year on heating and cooling costs by keeping the home cooler during the day. Using a programmable thermostat makes this automatic.
Ignoring outdoor faucets.
Not winterizing outdoor faucets has become one of the more common homeowner mistakes to avoid in the winter. A two dollar investment, an outdoor faucet cover protects your faucets and helps prevent drafts.
Dousing a windshield with scalding water.
De-icing an icicled vehicle can be a hassle, especially if you’re in a hurry. However, dunking a bucket of hot water on the windshield does not lead to a quick fix. It can even shatter the windshield! Remove the ice with an ice scraper, de-icing spray, or rubbing alcohol.
Summary
When you’re a homeowner, chores come with the territory—even in the winter. Attend to household duties now and you’ll set your home up for success later on.
In the market for a new home? Looking to sell but don’t know where to start? Either way, contact Realtor Ryan Roberts! Whatever your goals are for 2020, he can help you reach them. For more on homeownership, this season and beyond, follow our blog!