Is Your Home Ready for Winter?

Wisconsin is known for cold winters. Just how cold? On February 4, 1996 the coldest temperature in the state was recorded: -55 degrees in Sawyer county. That type of weather can be fatal to people and animals, and it really does a number on our homes, too.

Most days aren’t nearly that cold, but many can get downright numbing. What can you do to prepare your home for this weather? We’ve compiled some of the best tips.

As you go through these tips, remember that everyone has a different level of comfort in tackling home projects. Please consider hiring professionals whenever you believe it is necessary.

Inside

• Insulate walls and attic.
• Install a smoke detector and a battery-operated carbon monoxide detector near a fireplace, wood stove or portable heater. Vent all fuel-burning equipment outside.
• Examine wooden window frames for signs of rot or decay.
• Examine exposed ducts in the attic, basement, and crawl spaces. Use a sealant to plug up any leaks.
• Test your sump pump.

Outside

• Caulk and weather-strip doors and windows. Service snow-removal equipment. Sharpen ice chopper and inspect snow shovels.
• Trim overgrown branches back from the house and electrical wires to prevent them from causing a problem with ice or wind.
• Ensure rain or snow drains away from the house to avoid foundation problems. The dirt grade around the exterior of your home should slope away from the house.
• Remove and drain any attached hoses and store them for the winter.
• Shut off exterior faucets. Drain water from outdoor pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads to protect against pipe bursts.
• Make sure you have an ample supply of ice melt or sand on hand.
• Check the gutters and downspouts for proper fastening. Re-secure if loose or sagging. The weight of snow and ice can pull gutters off the house.
• Clean gutters of any debris. Make sure downspouts extend away from the house by at least 5 feet. Ensure all vents and openings are covered to prevent insects, birds, and rodents from getting inside to nest in a warm place.

Projects Where You’ll Definitely Want Professional Help

• Have chimney and flue inspected.
• Check for missing, damaged or warped shingles. Have a professional replace them as necessary to prevent roof leaks.
• Check for deteriorated flashing at the chimney, walls, and skylights and around vent pipes. Seal joints where water could penetrate.
• Have a professional Inspect your furnace or heat pump to be sure the system is in good repair.

Again, please consider hiring local professionals when needed, including clearing your driveway and sidewalks, if necessary.

Don’t Forget Your Pets

When the weather gets cold, take care of your pets. Bring them inside, or make sure they have adequate shelter and unfrozen water, if they are outdoors.

“Winter can really take a toll on a home,” said Tony Scalzo, Merchants Bank Mortgage Lender. “If you’re considering doing some renovations or work before the snow flies, Merchants has several flexible loan options to meet your needs.”

If you need help financing any home repairs or projects, contact Tony today to get your questions answered and schedule an appointment.

Tips compiled from emergency.cdc.gov, bobvila.com and kiplinger.com. Weather history from aos.wisc.edu.

Loans are subject to credit approval.