Preparation for the Winter weather

Preparing your home for the holiday season involves a few key steps to ensure your home is safe, comfortable, and ready for the holiday season.

Here are some items to take care of OUTSIDE the home to prepare for winter weather:

Have Roof Checked

If you suspect your roof has loose, damaged, or missing shingles, have a licensed roofing contractor do an inspection and make repairs before the first snow.

Clean and Inspect Gutters

Keep gutters clear and properly connected to ensure that melting snow runs off your roof and through downspouts.

Look for Ailing Tree Limbs

A dead branch covered in snow can easily snap, endangering people below and potentially causing thousands of dollars worth of damage if it strikes a roof, a porch, or siding.

Secure Outdoor Water Sources

Drain and store any garden hoses or sprinklers before the first frost to eliminate the chance that they’ll freeze and burst.

Mark Garden Beds, Paths, and Driveways

Use fiberglass snow poles or driveway markers every several feet to line the edges of these areas. That helps provide a clear path whether you’re blowing or shoveling snow yourself or you hire a professional plow driver.

Source: Consumer Reports