Preparing Your Home for Winter Storms

While we've already had over 13 inches of snow this winter season, it’s always a good time to make sure your house is protected against those winter storms. Aside from having your snow shovels, ice melt, and snowblower prepped and ready to go (which we're sure you already do!), there are a few things you can do around the house to minimize winter damage. 

Here are some great ways to prepare your home for winter storms:

-Caulk or add weatherstripping around windows and doors: Seal those gaps around your windows and doors to prevent drafts.

-Insulate your pipes: Wrap exposed water pipes with insulation to prevent freezing, particularly those located on exterior walls. (If you haven’t detached your garden hose yet, here’s your reminder to do so!) This will also help prevent burst pipes.

-Attic insulation: Have you checked the insulation in your attic lately? If there are some drafty areas, now is the time to fix the problem.

-Clean your gutters: With the recent high winds, you probably feel like you’re fighting a losing battle against the leaves clogging up your gutters. Nevertheless, it’s a good idea to get them cleaned out before the next snow falls. You may also want to consider adding extensions to your downspouts so that water runs away from your home.

-Trim your trees: If you have some trees with branches that look like they may damage your home during a snowstorm, now’s the time to trim them back.  

-Check your roof: Does your roof look like it can handle the added weight of lots of snow? If not, make sure you can get your roof fixed before winter sets in.

-Check your siding: Are there any areas of loose siding? Are there any other areas of your home that are particularly vulnerable when there is heavy rain or wind?

-Cover up your grill and outdoor furniture: Use plastic tarps or covers made to endure the winter weather to protect your grill and any outdoor furniture that can’t be stored inside or in a shed.

Need assistance with these or any other projects before winter? Hunter Handyman Services is here to help! Give us a call at (815) 780-7884 for more information and a free estimate. Find our full list of services here.