Cold weather can do an impressive amount of damage to your home if left unchecked. Before the cold really sets in, make sure your home is prepared to avoid severe damages.

Keep Water Moving

One of the most dangerous threats the cold brings is frozen pipes. Frozen pipes can lead to burst pipes and flood damage, which sometimes isn’t covered under your home insurance policy. Let your faucets drip and leave cabinets by your pipes open so they can get the warm air inside your home.

Avoid Power Outages with a Generator

Winter can bring storms and other threats that can cause power outages in your home. Consider purchasing a generator for your fridge and heating system to stay warm and healthy during a power outage.

Prevent Ice Buildup

Check your gutters, storm drains and roof for debris, build-up or leaks. Too much buildup can cause cracks in your gutters, which can lead to flooding. Leaks in any area of your home are also preventable. Make sure your roof is in top shape according to a contractor and that you have no shingles missing.

Seal Doors and Windows

Caulk the cracks of your windows and doors to keep the warm air in and the cold air out. This can help prevent the wind from blowing your doors open, and also save you money as less air will escape through the cracks. Make sure none of your doors or windows wiggle or seem flimsy.

Keep Emergency Kit in the House

Along with keeping your home safe, make sure everyone inside is taken care of in case of an incident. Have a first aid kit at hand in case of a weather disaster in the winter, including road salt, phone chargers, flashlights, batteries, a radio to keep up with the weather, and non-perishable food. This is especially important if you live in an area where snowstorms are likely or common.

Clear Your Yard

Make sure trees are trimmed back from your roof so a bad storm can’t drop them onto your roof and cause damage. You may also want to make sure all vehicles are kept in a garage or at least under covered parking, and there is nothing unattached left in the yard that could cause damage if thrown by the wind. Secure patio furniture or bring it inside before a storm comes.

Also Read: Does Homeowners Insurance Cover Stolen Electronics?

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