Winter in Western New York can be unpredictable and unforgiving. Heavy snow, ice, and freezing temperatures put homes under considerable stress, leading to potential damage, high energy costs, and safety risks. Taking proactive steps now can help prevent costly repairs and ensure your home stays warm and secure for the remainder of the season.
Here’s a practical guide to protecting your home during harsh winter conditions.
1. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against snow, ice, and wind. If it’s not properly maintained, winter weather can cause leaks, ice dams, and structural damage.
- Check for Missing or Damaged Shingles – Replace any that are worn out to prevent water from seeping in.
- Clear Your Gutters – Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which cause water to back up under your shingles and into your home.
- Remove Excess Snow – If heavy snowfall accumulates on your roof, use a roof rake to safely remove it and reduce the risk of collapse.
2. Prevent Frozen Pipes
When temperatures drop, exposed pipes are at risk of freezing and bursting, leading to costly water damage.
- Insulate Exposed Pipes – Use foam insulation or heat tape for pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages.
- Keep a Slow Drip – On extremely cold nights, let faucets trickle slightly to prevent water from freezing inside the pipes.
- Open Cabinet Doors – If you have pipes under kitchen or bathroom sinks, leaving cabinet doors open allows warm air to circulate.
3. Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation
Heat loss through doors, windows, and poorly insulated walls increases energy costs and makes your home harder to keep warm.
- Use Weatherstripping and Caulk – Seal any gaps around windows and doors to block cold air.
- Check Attic Insulation – Heat rises, and if your attic isn’t well-insulated, you’re losing warmth. Adding insulation can make a big difference.
- Consider Thermal Curtains – These help keep the cold out and the warmth in, especially at night.
4. Protect Your Heating System
Your furnace or boiler is working overtime during the winter. Proper maintenance ensures it runs efficiently and reduces the risk of a breakdown when you need it most.
- Change Your Furnace Filter – A dirty filter reduces airflow and forces your heating system to work harder.
- Schedule a Professional Inspection – Have an HVAC technician check for any issues before they become major problems.
- Keep Vents and Radiators Clear – Make sure nothing is blocking airflow, such as furniture or curtains.
5. Prepare for Power Outages
Winter storms can cause power outages that last hours or even days. Having a plan in place can help keep your home safe and livable.
- Stock Up on Essentials – Have flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food on hand.
- Use a Generator Safely – If you have a backup generator, run it outside and away from windows to prevent carbon monoxide poisoning.
- Keep Pipes from Freezing – If the heat goes out, let faucets drip to keep water moving through the pipes.
Homeowners should carefully inspect all aspects of the project during the final walkthrough, ensuring that everything meets their expectations and aligns with the agreed-upon plans. Any necessary touch-ups or corrections should be documented and scheduled before the project is officially completed.
6. Check Outdoor Safety Measures
Snow and ice make driveways, walkways, and stairs dangerous. Keeping them clear reduces the risk of slips and falls.
- Shovel Regularly – Removing snow before it compacts into ice makes it easier to manage.
- Use Sand or Ice Melt – This provides traction and helps prevent icy buildup.
- Trim Tree Branches – Ice-laden branches can break and cause damage to your home or power lines.
Final Thoughts
Winter can be tough, but a well-prepared home is safer, more energy-efficient, and less likely to suffer damage. Taking these preventative steps now can help you avoid expensive repairs and stay comfortable for the rest of the season.
If you’re concerned about your home’s readiness for extreme winter conditions, a professional inspection can help identify potential vulnerabilities before they become bigger problems.