3 Ways To Prepare Your Home for Colder Weather

The Farmer’s Almanac is predicting a harsh winter in the DC metro area, which is no surprise considering the sporadic weather patterns we tend to see. Before that first frost hits, it’s imperative to prepare your home for the possibility of severe weather.

Why should you prepare your home for the cold? Well, for one thing, it will make for an effortless transition between seasons. But, it will also improve your home comfort, and be easier on your wallet. It may take some time to get everything accomplished, so starting early may be a good idea.

Here are 3 ways to prepare your home for the colder weather ahead.

Gutters & Downspouts

Make sure to stay on top of the leaves this fall. When leaves build up in your gutters and downspouts, it blocks water from flowing as it should. If you don’t clean out those leaves, then the cold weather can freeze the water in your downspouts, ultimately leading to damage of not only your gutters, but potentially your roof and foundation. Since gutter cleaning can be a dangerous task, call on a professional to take care of it for you.

Window Cleaning & Inspection

Window cleaning is recommended twice a year–once during spring or early summer and once during fall. Once the temperatures drop, it will be much too cold to have your windows professionally cleaned. So, to avoid having dirty, cloudy windows throughout the winter season, schedule window cleaning this fall. Additionally, be sure to inspect the caulking surrounding your windows and replace it if necessary. An unwanted draft coming through your windows this winter would raise your heating bills and hurt your home comfort.

Pressure Cleaning

The changing of the seasons calls for lots of pressure washing. Chances are, outdoor activity this summer was at an all time high, which means your home’s exterior is probably looking rough. Here are a few things that could likely use a pressure cleaning.

• Deck. Your summer stage has experienced the most activity over the past few months, and has probably accumulated lots of dirt, debris, and damages. Deck stains can be tough to remove and often require a deep cleaning. Professional pressure washing is the best way to remove that dirt that has built up. And after pressure cleaning, a good sealing is recommended to protect your deck from exposure to the elements this winter.
• Outdoor furniture. Once that first freeze comes, you likely won’t be spending much time sitting outdoors. Don’t let that outdoor furniture sit out in the cold to rust or rot! Give it a good pressure cleaning and either cover it up or store it away until you need it once again. This will protect it throughout the cold weather and ultimately lengthen its lifespan.
• Siding. Your home’s siding sees a lot of wear and tear throughout the season changes. Pressure cleaning is a great way to remove the dirt and grime that has accumulated throughout the spring and summer, and protect it throughout the cooler months. Bonus: Pressure cleaning your home will also improve your curb appeal!

Colder weather is on its way to the DC metro area, whether we like it or not! Preparing your home for what lies ahead is a vital task for a responsible homeowner. Not only will it keep your home’s exterior in its best shape during the coldest times of year, but it will also give you peace of mind.

Be sure to contact KEVCO for all of your exterior home maintenance as the seasons change. We know homeowners in the Washington, DC metropolitan area are busy, so we will take care of things for you!