Record low temperatures have Virginians bundling up. But don’t leave your house “out in the cold.” Here are a few tips that will protect your home during the winter months.

1. Avoid putting salt on cement to prevent pitting. It may require figuring out a different path out of the house, but preserving the cement will prevent replacement costs later!.
2. Keep your gutters clean. This is good advice throughout the year, but particularly in winter when trapped water will expand, contract and cause havoc.
3. Turn off and winterize hose bibs. Detach and empty any hoses. Turn off your supply line, THEN make sure you turn on your outdoor faucet to drain the existing water. You can also buy frost-proof hose bibbs.
4. Know where your water shut offs are. If something bursts, you will be able to stop further damage fast.
5. Beware of space heaters. They can overload the circuits and trip the breaker. If needed, use only thermostat-contolled, UL rated heaters. And don’t plug them into extension cords.
6. Keep leaves around the base of plants to help them stay insulated.

Properties on the Potomac, Inc. knows that a house is not just an investment. It’s your treasured home, and a little extra care now will preserve your home for years to come. Stay warm!