You’ve probably heard the joke that you know you’re from North Carolina if you’ve ever had to wear a winter coat, gloves, and a scarf in the morning, but you end up in jeans and a t-shirt that same afternoon. Despite the moderate temperatures in North Carolina, it’s crucial to prepare your NC homes for cold weather, especially as winter approaches.
Most of North Carolina enjoys moderate temperatures, but it still experiences cold months. While it doesn’t get as cold here as it does in places like New York or Minnesota, it’s essential to prepare your NC homes for the cold weather.
Drain the Pipes
The first thing you should do to prepare for the cold North Carolina weather is to protect your pipes. Yes, our average low is above freezing, but that doesn’t mean there won’t be plenty of icy nights in the winter. Water freezes and expands, which can cause your water pipes to crack or burst.
- Drain any water from your outside faucet and sprinkler system.
- Drain and store your hose.
- Cover your outside faucets with insulators.
- Ensure pipes that go through unheated areas like attics and garages are insulated as well.
- Know in advance where your shutoff valve is and make sure you have any necessary tools to shut it off in case of a leak.
Heat Check
Ensuring your heating system is in top shape is critical for winter in North Carolina. Here are some tips:
- Replace your filters monthly, especially in winter when your heater works extra hard. Dust and animal fur can clog up your filters, reducing airflow.
- Reverse the direction of your fans to clockwise with the flip of a switch to help circulate warm air. Learn more about how to do this here.
- If you plan on using your fireplace, have it cleaned to ensure it’s not stopped up with soot or critters. If you don’t plan to use it, close your flue to keep heat inside the house.
- Consider installing a programmable thermostat to use less heat when you’re sleeping or not at home. Some modern thermostats can learn your habits or be controlled remotely with an app on your phone. For more information, check out Energy Star’s guide.
Gutters, Windows, and Doors
Maintaining your home’s exterior is just as important as managing the interior during cold weather:
- Clean out your gutters to prevent ice dams. Stopped-up gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause severe water damage when they melt. Here’s a helpful guide on cleaning your gutters.
- Ensure all vents are clear to avoid blockages.
- Consider installing heat cables on your eaves to prevent ice dams.
- Check the seals around your windows and doors. Caulk your windows and add weather stripping to your doors to help keep the heat in. If possible, upgrade to double-pane or triple-pane windows and add storm doors. Energy.gov provides excellent resources on sealing your home.
Prevent Water Damage
Water damage can be a significant issue in winter, and taking preventive steps is essential:
- Ensure your roof is in good condition and free from leaks. Regularly check for missing or damaged shingles and repair them promptly.
- Make sure your gutters and downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation to prevent basement leaks and foundation damage.
NC Homes for Cold Weather Protection for Exterior
Winter weather in North Carolina can be mild compared to other places in the country, but it’s still essential to protect your home’s exterior:
- Check for cracks and gaps in your home’s siding and foundation and seal them to prevent cold air and moisture from entering.
- Inspect your driveway and walkways for cracks and repair them to prevent further damage from freezing and thawing cycles.
Conclusion
Preparing your NC homes for cold weather is crucial to ensure you stay warm without running up your energy bill or worrying about damage to your property. Whether you’re dealing with winter in North Carolina or general cold weather, taking these steps can help you enjoy a comfortable and worry-free winter.
Remember, a little preparation goes a long way in protecting your home from the challenges of winter weather. For more tips and expert advice on maintaining your home, contact Mantle Realty.
Click the link below to learn more about how to prepare your home for winter and start your home search today.
Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is based on available data at the time of writing. Please consult with a local professional for the most up-to-date information and to explore all your options for preparing your NC home for cold weather.
