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Pre-Winter Home Prep: Insulation and Maintenance Checklist

April 12, 2026

Why Pre-Winter Prep Matters

In Ayvalık, the southwest wind and rains hit hard in winter, and coastal humidity is high. One day of work in September-October can cut your heating bill 20-30% and prevent sudden breakdowns. Here is the 20-item checklist.

1. Window and Door Seals

Check frames for drafts with a candle flame
Replace old weather strips (EPDM D/E/P profiles)
Fit a door sweep or rubber seal
Apply thermal film to single-glazed windows
Heavy curtains reduce cold bridging

2. Exterior and Roof Check

Replace cracked or missing tiles
Check wooden roof elements for decay
Clean gutters of leaves and debris
Seal chimney mortar cracks with silicone
Repair exterior paint bubbles early

3. Plumbing Protection

Wrap exposed pipes with insulation sleeves
Close and drain garden taps
Blow irrigation lines dry
Test the main valve

4. Boiler and Heating

Annual service by an authorised technician
Bleed radiators
Wipe panels, add reflective foil behind them
Replace thermostat batteries
Soap-water test for gas leaks

5. Electrical and Lighting

Test outdoor lighting after first rain
Adjust automatic relays for winter time
Test generator if present
If using a stove, clean chimney and install a CO detector

6. Indoor Prep

Cover or store summer furniture
Wash and lay rugs (stone floors stay cold)
Use a dehumidifier
Ventilate twice a day for 10 minutes

7. Fuel and Supplies

Check wood/pellet stock
Keep spare fuses, bulbs and batteries
Keep bottled water for boiler refills (1.5 bar target)
Flashlight and extension cord ready

Energy-Saving Tips

Thermal curtains, radiator reflectors, door sweeps and ceiling insulation give the fastest payback. Replacing window seals alone reportedly cuts bills by 8-12%.

Winter Prep Supplies at Süm-Sel

Weather strips, pipe insulation, silicone, chimney sealant, reflective foil, felt, thermal curtains, bulbs, batteries and more - all at Süm-Sel Ayvalık. Bring your list and let’s handle it in one visit.