Winterizing the home

When it comes to homes, leaving for an extended period of time can be problematic.

Whether the owner of a summer home or cabin, or intending to spend an extended period of time away from a year-round residence during the coming colder months, it’s vital to know how to prepare the home. Handyman Matters of Rogers offers some key tips to winterize a home and minimize potential damage that may be heading that way.

Turn off the water at the exterior source

Should a pipe burst during a cold spell and no one is checking on the property for weeks or months at a time, an untold amount of water damage can result. Even small water leaks that go unchecked will contribute substantially to the water bill. (In fact, it’s worth looking into insurance coverage options for property that sits vacant for long periods; it can well be worth the cost). Open all faucets and drain the water lines and water heater. An added tip: To prevent total water evaporation from the toilet’s trap (which prevents sewer gases from entering the home), raise the toilet’s lid and seat and cover the bowl with plastic wrap.

Unplug electric appliances

Fire prevention. If the power to the property will remain on, unplugging devices such as a microwave, toaster and television helps avoid the risk of fire that can result from small animals gnawing on the wires, or a power surge of any kind.

Close fireplace flues and dampers

This is an easy thing to overlook in the rush to close up the home for the season. Properly closing off the fireplace will keep these aforementioned small animals from infesting the home, and it aides in fire prevention.

Reduce fire hazards

Another obvious, yet easy-to-forget task is the removal of items that could either lead to fires or provide tinder for one should it get started. Don’t leave behind stacks of papers. Don’t store cans of stain, paint or paint thinners, oily rags and brushes or other combustibles. Even firewood should not be left in large quantities alongside a hearth simply for the convenience of having it ready upon return.

Empty freezers and refrigerators

Should the electricity be off for any length of time, the items will spoil, and disposal of a very smelly mess will be needed upon return. Along those same lines, any non-perishable items left behind should be stored in metal containers with tight lids. Even soap, sponges and candles should be locked away, as some rodents and vermin see these as a food source as well.

These are just a few of the necessary measures for winterizing the home. Others, such as taking down screens, closing shutters or installing storm windows, are more involved and, depending on a personal skill set or availability, may require professional assistance.

Handyman Matters stands ready to assist customers with these and any other repairs, as well restorations or other tasks a summer getaway — or a year-round residence — might require. Visit their location in Rogers or call (479) 633-0022.