1) Regularly clean gutters and downspouts. Make sure all drainage areas are unblocked by leaves and debris. Consider installing gutter guards to make the job a lot easier.
2) Lower the humidity in your home to reduce the amount of condensation buildup on your windows. If the humidity level is too high condensation and ice will form on your windows and can cause damage to the frames and surrounding trim.
3) The change in temperature and humidity and normal wear and tear can cause window seals to crack and shrink. Check your windows and doors inside and out for leaks and drafts. Caulk cracks or install weather stripping around windows and doors, including the garage door.
4) Have a Roof Tune Up performed by a licenced roofing contractor once every 5 years. If the shingles are curling, buckling or crackling, replace them. If you have a lot of damage, it’s time to replace the entire roof. Also, check the flashing around skylights, pipes and chimneys. If you have any leaks or gaps, heavy snow and ice will find its way in.
5) To prevent exterior water pipes from bursting when the weather gets below freezing, turn off the valves to the exterior hose bibs. Open the exterior faucet valves to drain the water until the pipes are empty. Make sure all the water is drained from the pipes, if not; the water can freeze up and damage the pipes.
