5 Things You Should Do to Winterize Your Home

As the colder months approach, preparing your home for winter is essential to avoid potential damage caused by harsh weather. While you might not always know what needs attention, there are a few basic maintenance tasks that can protect your home from costly issues down the road.

From checking your home’s exterior to cleaning out the gutters, here are some things you should do to winterize your home.

  • Inspect Your Home’s Exterior

Before the temperatures drop, it’s crucial to inspect the exterior of your home for any potential issues. While many homeowners don’t know what to look for, having a professional from the painting or carpentry world perform a walkthrough can save you time and money. A professional can check for failing paint, wood rot, or loose siding boards that need to be secured. These minor issues might seem insignificant now, but they’ll only worsen as winter weather sets in. Scheduling a free estimate for any necessary repairs can help you stay ahead of the damage.

  • Shut Down Exterior Water Sources

If you have outdoor water sources like hoses or irrigation systems, you should flush them and shut them off before the first freeze. Failing to do so could result in frozen pipes, leading to expensive repairs and water damage inside your home. Even if your outdoor faucets are considered frost-proof, it’s a good idea to disconnect hoses and drain any remaining water to prevent a major plumbing disaster in the middle of winter.

  • Clean Your Gutters

Clogged gutters are a common issue that can lead to severe problems in the winter. When leaves, dirt, or debris block gutters or downspouts, water can’t flow properly, leading to ice dams. An ice dam is when water freezes in the gutters, potentially forcing it under your home’s siding or roof, causing water damage. Regularly cleaning your gutters before winter will help prevent this, keeping water flowing freely away from your home.

  • Secure Loose Fixtures and Fill Nail Holes

Take a moment to walk around your home and remove any flags, hanging baskets, or other decorations that could become damaged in winter storms. Items hanging off the side of your house can become a hazard in strong winds or heavy snow, potentially causing damage to your home’s exterior. While doing this, it’s also a great time to fill any nail holes left behind from hanging items, as exposed wood is susceptible to moisture damage during the winter. Be cautious when hanging holiday lights, too—use clips designed for exterior use to avoid causing damage to your siding or roof.

  • Touch Up Failing Paint and Stain

Winter weather can be especially harsh on exterior surfaces like wood siding, decks, and fences. If you notice any areas where paint or stain is peeling or fading, now is the time to touch them up. Failing paint leaves your home’s materials exposed to moisture, which can cause wood rot and other damage. A fresh coat of paint or stain before winter sets in will protect your home’s exterior from the elements and extend its lifespan.

Preventative Maintenance Goes a Long Way

The key to winterizing your home is preventing minor issues from becoming big, costly problems. A little preventive maintenance can save you from dealing with expensive repairs in the spring. Whether securing loose boards, cleaning the gutters, or touching up paint, taking care of your home before winter ensures it stays protected during the cold months.

If you need help figuring out where to start, contact a professional for a thorough inspection and estimate. It’s always better to be proactive than reactive when protecting your most valuable investment—your home.

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