4 Ways to Prevent Home Damage in Winter

Winter can be rough on both you and on your property.

The cold temperatures, icy winds and even falling leaves that come with cooling weather can be a big stressor on a home and its systems. Without careful preparation, they could lead to costly repairs, too.

In order to protect your home (and wallet) this season, check these preventive maintenance tasks off your to-do list.

• Proper Pipe Care: When it gets below freezing outside, it can cause issues like burst pipes for sinks, appliances and sprinkler systems. To prevent this, it’s important to insulate outdoor pipes and drip your faucets indoors before a freeze. You may also want to turn off the water to your washer and any appliances that are in colder parts of the house.
• Keep Gutters Clear: When downspouts and gutters are full of leaves and debris, it can allow precipitation to build up and put pressure on your home’s walls and roof. This can lead to leaks and other dangerous issues.
• Check the Trees: Trees that are too close to your home or roof can pose a serious threat in a storm. Make sure to trim back any that are within falling distance of your property. If any branches or trees show signs of decay, try to have them removed preemptively, since they’ll likely be the first to fall in a strong wind.
• Examine the Roof: Have a roofing professional come check your roof for any lost or damaged shingles or other problems that could allow moisture to seep in. Addressing weaknesses now is critical to preventing potential leaks, water damage and mold.

If you have questions about buying, selling or homeownership, get in touch today.