Prepare Your Home's Exterior For Winter Weather

Winter is closer than you think and preparing your home’s exterior for winter is an essential task to prevent damage and ensure energy efficiency during the colder months. Here are some key steps to get your home ready for the coming New England winter:

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters

• Remove leaves and debris: Clean gutters to prevent blockages, which can lead to water damage, ice dams, and even structural issues.
• Check for damage: Ensure that gutters and downspouts are securely attached and in good condition. Repair any leaks or cracks.

2. Seal Cracks and Gaps

• Check for drafts: Inspect windows, doors, and exterior walls for cracks or gaps. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal these areas to improve insulation.
• Examine the foundation: Look for cracks in the foundation or exterior walls and seal them with appropriate materials to prevent cold air from entering and pests from getting in.

3. Inspect the Roof

• Check for damaged shingles: Look for loose, missing, or damaged shingles and replace them to prevent leaks when snow and ice accumulate.
• Clean the roof: Clear off any leaves, branches, or debris that could trap moisture and lead to mold growth or ice dams.

4. Prepare Outdoor Faucets and Irrigation Systems

• Drain outdoor hoses: Disconnect and store garden hoses. Shut off water to exterior faucets and drain them to prevent freezing.
• Blow out irrigation systems: If you have a sprinkler system, have it blown out to remove any remaining water to avoid freezing and bursting pipes.

5. Protect Outdoor Furniture and Equipment

• Store or cover furniture: Bring outdoor furniture, grills, and lawn equipment inside or cover them with weatherproof covers to protect them from snow and ice.
• Winterize lawn equipment: Drain fuel from lawnmowers and other gasoline-powered equipment to prevent engine issues in the spring.

6. Trim Trees and Shrubs

• Prune overhanging branches: Trim back any trees or branches that hang over your roof or are close to power lines, as these can become dangerous when weighed down by snow or ice.
• Protect delicate plants: Wrap shrubs or cover plants with burlap to shield them from harsh winter conditions.

7. Check and Clean Chimneys

• Inspect the chimney: Have your chimney inspected and cleaned, especially if you use it regularly. Creosote buildup can lead to chimney fires, and cracks can cause heat loss.
• Check the cap and flashing: Ensure the chimney cap is secure to prevent animals from entering, and check for any flashing damage to avoid leaks.

8. Examine Decks and Patios

• Clean and seal decks: Sweep off debris and apply a waterproof sealant to protect your deck from moisture, snow, and ice damage.
• Check for structural issues: Inspect wooden decks, steps, and railings for any rot or damage that could worsen with winter weather.

9. Insulate Pipes

• Protect exposed pipes: Insulate any pipes that are exposed to the elements or in unheated areas (e.g., crawl spaces, garages) to prevent them from freezing and bursting.

10. Prepare Snow Removal Equipment

• Test snow blowers and shovels: Make sure your snow removal equipment is in working order. Replace worn-out shovels or blades on snow blowers, and stock up on ice melt or sand.

By taking these proactive steps, you can prevent costly repairs and ensure your home is ready for the challenges of winter. As always it is recommended that you hire a licensed contractor for a thorough and safe inspection.