Fall has officially started and most people equate this season with football, pumpkin patches, bonfires, and overall just a time of relief from the sweltering summer heat. As much as we would all love to sit back and enjoy the cooler weather, we should also be preparing for the long winter to come. After all, nothing is worse than a leaking roof when temperatures are subzero. Check out 5 easy ways to tune up your home’s exterior before winter.
1. Seal cracks around doors and windows
Minor cracks can be taken care of very simply with a tube of caulk. This will ensure your home is sealed before the winter breezes get through. If you notice excessive cracks, though, you may want to get a contractor to your home to see if replacement doors and windows are needed.
2. Clean your gutters
Take time to clean out any leaves, debris, or other gunk stuck in your gutters. You may even consider a gutter guard to prevent clogging in the future. No matter how you choose to go about it, keeping your gutters clear before winter is vital to preventing ice dams.
3. Inspect your roof
If you notice any cracked, missing, or curling shingles, it may be time for roof repair or replacement. The only way to know for sure, though, is to spend time inspecting the current state of your roof. You can also hire a roofing contractor to conduct a professional inspection and recommend needed repairs.
4. Turn Off & Drain Outside Pipes
Prevent exterior pipes and hoses from exploding by draining them and turning off the water before they freeze. You will want to completely run the water out of the pipes to make sure there is no moisture in there that could freeze. Also, wrap up that hose and store it safely inside.
5. Trim Your Trees
While a leaning tree or broken limbs may not seem like a huge issue, they can become a real safety hazard when heavy snow or ice causes them to fall on your home. Take a weekend and trim your trees or hire someone to do the job to ensure your family is safe for the winter.
Many exterior home maintenance duties can be done with just a little time carved out, but some may also require professional services. If you aren’t ready to tune up your home yourself, call Brincks Exteriors. We take care of residential homes throughout Iowa and Wisconsin and would be happy to prepare your home for any severe weather.
