Avoid costly water damage before ❄️ Here’s how!

The leaves are turning and the air is getting crisp — a signal that it’s time to prepare your home’s exterior for the colder months ahead. Which makes it to the top of our list? Protecting your home from water damage. With snowy season ahead, addressing this task will safeguard your home from common seasonal issues

1. Clean the Gutters

Autumn brings falling leaves, many of which end up in your gutters. Clogged gutters are a serious problem for your home. If water can’t flow freely through the gutters and downspouts, it can overflow, pooling around your home’s foundation or spilling over onto walls, causing water damage. To prevent this:

• Clear debris: Clean your gutters (safely) at least once, preferably after most of the leaves have fallen — you may opt to enlist the help of pros.
• Check for sagging: Make sure gutters are still securely attached and are angled to drain correctly.
• Inspect downspouts: Ensure water is directed several feet away from the foundation.

2. Inspect the Roof. This one is a biggie, especially if you have skylights.

Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against the elements. Before the first frost, take time to assess the condition of your roof. A damaged roof in winter can lead to leaks and ice dams, both of which can be costly to repair. We think this task is best suited to roofing pros who know exactly what they’re looking for and can do it safely.

The pros will: Check for missing or damaged shingles and replace any that are cracked, curling, or missing; examine flashing and seals and ensure the areas around chimneys, vents, and skylights are properly sealed; and clear debris by removing any branches or leaves that may have settled on your roof.

3. Trim Trees and Bushes

Overhanging branches can cause problems if left unattended. High winds and heavy snowfall can cause weak branches to fall, potentially damaging your roof, windows, or siding.

• Prune overhanging branches: Trim trees and shrubs to keep them from touching your house. This will also discourage animals like squirrels from finding easy access to your roof.
• Remove dead limbs: Dead or weak branches are more likely to snap under the weight of snow.

4. Seal Cracks and Gaps

Autumn is the ideal time to seal up any cracks or gaps in your home’s exterior before winter sets in. These small openings can allow water, cold air, and pests to enter your home.

• Check around windows and doors: Use weatherstripping and caulk to seal gaps and prevent drafts.
• Inspect your foundation: Look for cracks in the foundation and seal them with appropriate fillers or caulk.
• Repair walkways and driveways: Water can seep into small cracks, freeze, and expand, causing further damage to concrete surfaces.

5. Protect Outdoor Furniture and Equipment

Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can cause materials to deteriorate if left unprotected.

• Store furniture: Move outdoor furniture into a shed or garage, or cover it with weatherproof covers.
• Drain garden hoses and sprinklers: Remove and store hoses, and drain sprinkler systems to prevent pipes from bursting due to freezing.
• Clean and cover grills: Give your grill a thorough cleaning, then cover it to protect it from the elements.

6. Winterize Water Features

If you have water features like fountains or ponds, they need attention before the freeze.

• Turn off and drain fountains: Remove the water to prevent freezing and damage to pumps.
• Cover ponds: If you have a pond, cover it with netting to keep leaves out, and shut down any pumps that may freeze.