With colder months not far away, it’s time to get your home’s exterior ready for this harsh condition. Widely an early preparation with a great cleaning checklist helps not only keep your house aesthetic but also evade possible winter damage.
This step-by-step guide takes you through everything you want to know and do in pre-winter cleaning, from roof to foundation.
Let’s get started.
Why Pre-Winter Cleaning Matters?
This winter weather can and will make any existing issues with your home’s exterior, including cracks or leaks, much worse. Preparation can help you catch those weak points in advance.
Besides, a clean and well-maintained exterior enhances your home’s curb appeal, making it more inviting and visually appealing despite the gloomy weather.
So that is why pre-winter cleaning matters. Now let us give you a detailed pre-winter cleaning checklist to help you.
Our Pre-Winter Cleaning Checklist for Your Home’s Exterior
Here is a comprehensive checklist for exterior cleaning:
1. Roof Maintenance:
- Inspect for Damage: Check for missing, cracked or damaged shingles.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Don’t let leaves, twigs, and other debris in gutters and downspouts create clogged water flows that can form ice dams.
- Check Flashing: Check that the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights is in good shape so these will not cause a leak during a storm.
- Moss and Algae Removal: Remove moss or algae to prevent damage and proper water runoff.
2. Gutter and Downspout Care:
- Clear Debris: Ensure all gutters and downspouts are free of leaves and debris.
- Secure Gutters: It is also essential to check for loose or sagging gutters and secure them appropriately.
- Test Water Flow: Use a hose to run water through the gutters and obstructions. Watch for proper water flow : look for leaks.
3. Exterior Walls and Siding:
- Wash Siding: Use a pressure washer to clean dirt and grime from siding.
- Check for Cracks: Inspect for any cracks or gaps in the siding and seal them to prevent water intrusion.
- Paint Touch-Ups: Repaint any areas where paint is peeling or fading.
4. Windows and Doors:
- Clean Windows: It is important to wash windows to remove dirt and grime to get the most insulation out of your windows.
- Caulking Review: Caulking around windows and doors and replace if it is cracked or missing.
- Weatherstripping: Make sure that weatherstripping is in place to prevent drafts and heat loss.
5. Driveways and Walkways:
- Repair Cracks: Fill any cracks or holes in driveways and walkways to prevent further damage from freezing and thawing.
- Clean Surface: Remove dirt, leaves, and debris.
- Seal Concrete: Apply a sealant to the concrete to protect it from damage caused by freezing ice and snow.
6. Yard and Landscaping:
- Trim Trees and Bushes: Trim any tree or bush branches that hang over your house to reduce the weight of snow and ice.
- Rake Leaves: Keep leaves off the lawn to prevent mold and mildew.
- Store Furniture: Clean and store outdoor furniture, grills, and garden tools.
7. Foundation:
- Inspect for Cracks: Check the foundation for any cracks and seal them to prevent water intrusion.
- Ensure Proper Drainage: Work to ensure that the ground does slope away from the foundation to prevent water accumulation.
8. Deck and Patio:
- Clean and Seal: This move cleans and seals wooden decks and patios to protect against moisture.
- Inspect for Damage: Check for loose or damaged boards and repair them.
9. Chimney and Fireplace:
- Clean Chimney: Scheduling a professional cleaning will help remove soot and debris from the chimney.
- Check Cap: Ensure the cap is on the chimney to prevent animals and debris from getting in.
10. HVAC Units:
- Clean Units: Remove any debris from around the exterior HVAC units.
- Cover Units: Consider covering the unit with a breathable cover to protect against snow and ice buildup.
The following checklist will take you through some fundamental processes that will help keep your exterior in good condition and ready for the winter.
Conclusion
Preparing your home’s exterior for winter is essential for preventing damage and maintaining its appearance. Following this pre-winter cleaning checklist helps identify and address potential issues caused by snow, ice, and freezing temperatures.
Everything-from roof care to yard maintenance-has been added to make sure your home can stand firm when the winds of winter begin howling. Preparing your home well in advance gives you peace of mind and even frees you to focus on those things that bring delight to the season.
