When temperatures drop in the Chicagoland area, residents from Hinsdale to Naperville pull out puffy coats and thick scarves to brace for another Chicago winter. While we take time to prepare ourselves for the cold, it’s just as important to get our homes ready for freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and heavy winds.
Use these essential winter home maintenance tips to protect your house and avoid costly repairs this season.
Clean Your Gutters Before Winter
If you live in a single-family home, cleaning your gutters before winter arrives is a must. Clear gutters allow rain and melting snow to drain properly away from your roof and foundation.
When gutters become clogged with leaves and debris, water can back up and freeze, creating ice dams and blockages. This can lead to water seeping into your home and causing interior damage. A quick gutter cleaning now can save you major headaches later.
Trim Trees and Overhanging Branches
Trees add beauty to your yard in the warmer months, but overhanging branches can become a serious hazard in winter. Snow and ice buildup can cause weakened branches near your roof, gutters, or siding to snap and fall, resulting in costly damage.
Trim back any branches that hang too close to your home, or hire a professional tree service to handle it safely.
Prepare Your Pipes to Prevent Freezing
Frozen pipes are one of the most expensive winter home disasters — but they’re also one of the most preventable. When temperatures drop dramatically, let faucets drip slightly and avoid lowering your thermostat too much when you’re away.
Be sure to wrap exposed pipes with insulation, such as foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves, and repair any damaged plumbing before winter sets in. These simple steps can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Clean and Inspect Your Fireplace
If your home has a fireplace, professional cleaning and inspection should be part of your winter preparation checklist. Since most fireplaces go unused for months, debris and creosote buildup can block the flue or chimney.
A clean, clear fireplace helps prevent chimney fires and ensures safe use throughout the winter season.
Seal Air Leaks and Stop Drafts
Drafty rooms make winter heating less efficient and less comfortable. Keep cold air outside by sealing gaps around doors and windows with caulk or weather stripping. Replacing worn door sweeps and old doorstops can also make a big difference.
Sealing air leaks not only keeps your home warmer but can also help lower energy bills during the coldest months of the year.
For more tips on how to prepare your home for winter, or to start planning your post-winter home renovation, contact LaMantia Design and Remodeling.
