Yep, winter. Despite some really nice weather that has made summer linger, we know what is coming. Cold weather. You undoubtedly have a to do list to prepare for the winter months. Here we provide a checklist for things you can do to prepare the exterior of your home for winter.
Plumbing
1. Disconnect all hoses and drain the outside spigots. Store the hoses in your garage or shed to protect them from the cold.
2. Cover the spigots with a foam cover.
3. Also drain water from your sprinkler system.
4. To also prevent flooding, make sure the landscaping is graded so that water drains away from the house as it flows from the downspouts.
5. This is probably something done from inside the house but turn off the outside water supply.
Structural
6. Clean your gutters and downspouts to ensure water does not get trapped and form ice dams on your roof.
7. Protect the roof. Replace damaged or missing shingles that could allow moisture to seep into your home.
8. Invest in a roof deicing system. Roof deicing cables will prevent ice dams from forming on your roof, reducing the risk of damage to the roof as well as to your home and possessions.
9. Repair any damaged steps or handrails that could pose a hazard.
10. Winterize your deck and patio.
11. Have your chimney swept.
12. This is actually inside or outside, but seal or caulk any gaps in your doors, windows and wood trim that can let cold air in.
Equipment
13. Drain your lawnmower and store it in a protected environment.
14. Gas up your snowblower and test it to make sure it runs.
Landscaping
15. Aerate, fertilize and overseed the lawn
16. Trim tree limbs and branches hanging over your driveway, garage and house so ice does not weigh them down and cause them to break off and cause damage.
Other
17. Drain and cover your pool.
18. Cover your lawn and patio furniture. Consider moving cushions to a shed or garage.
Contact Ravinia Plumbing, Sewer, Heating & Electric for Winter-Related Products and Services
The expert plumbers, HVAC technicians and electricians at Ravinia Plumbing can help you in a variety of ways to prepare the outside of your house for winter. Our customers have relied on us since 1928 (that’s 97 years!) for quality products, knowledgeable technicians, and superior service, including 24/7/365 emergency service. That is why we’ve made a name for ourselves as the most trusted plumbing, sewer, heating and air conditioning, and electrical company in Chicago’s North Shore and Northwest suburbs. Contact Ravinia Plumbing today to schedule an appointment.