As the winter season, along with the weather that accompanies it, soon approaches, the time has come for us to create that "things-to-do-before-it-snows-and-ice list" that will ensure peace of mind as well as a warm, cozy home on those chilly days and frigid nights.

A few minutes spent wisely on preventative maintenance now can save hours on the clock, as well as dollars in the pocketbook -- not to mention a pounding headache come spring thaw.

Remember that rain gutters and downspouts are not self-cleaning. A trip to the roof with the appropriate cleaning tools in hand is a must for those inevitable days of piling snow and pounding rain. As you know, water on the roof needs to go somewhere, hopefully towards the rain gutter. A clogged rain gutter will cause the water to build up and not properly drain, causing potential water problems on the roof, soffit or trim. Also, make sure the water that drains through the downspouts is diverted away from the structure.

Be sure that your basement window wells are cleaned out of all debris. Moisture that enters into the window wells cannot escape and any debris that is higher than the base of the window will retain the moisture and may work its way inside through any slight defect in the seal around the window frame.

Also, be certain to have a good seal around all exterior doors and windows. A good silicone caulking will serve well to create a good lasting seal. By doing this, it will create an energy efficient bond on the interior and a protection against moisture on the exterior.

One of the most important steps in proper home winterization is to have your furnace serviced by an appropriate specialist and change your furnace filter. Most people think changing the filter in November for the winter months is sufficient. I recommend changing the filter monthly, which will give best results. The least expensive filters work just as well as the expensive variety as long as they are changed on a regular basis. A regular changing of the furnace filter can add years to the life of the unit. Also, set your thermostat accordingly for daytime and nighttime hours to aid you in cutting dollars from your monthly utility bill.

If you would like to submit a home remodeling or home improvement question to be addressed in this column, please e-mail them to Joel Jones at joelthehomeinspector@msn.com.

Joel is the owner of "The Inspector," a home and building inspection company and a home improvement and remodeling consultant.