Mid-Winter Home Maintenance: Taking Care of Your Exterior

Check Your Siding

Winter weather can be harsh on siding, particularly vinyl and aluminum kinds. So, make time to check the siding around your home – are any parts damaged or loose? Water damage, mildew, and mold can be a serious issue with loose siding – these nasties thrive in the cold and damp mid-winter conditions. If you do see any patches of mold, be sure to eradicate it before it has the chance to spread (if it gets into the pores of the siding, it can easily become a repeat problem). Although power washing is an effective cleaning tool, keep in mind it can be particularly dangerous in winter weather as it involves extra risk, including wet surfaces and the potential of freezing equipment. Ideally, consider contacting a professional to take care of the job for you safely and efficiently.

Take Care of Your Drains 

Freezing winter temperatures can damage outdoor drains and pipes, while water inside these drains and pipes can freeze. In turn, the drain or drain line becomes blocked and the drain or pipes are put under extra pressure as the water expands. Blocked drains can also mean water starts to collect around the foundation of your home, potentially resulting in flooding and water damage. If your drains are blocked, it’s therefore essential to get them professionally cleaned, and the specific nature of your blockage may depend on where you live. In cold states like Indiana, for example, frozen drains and pipes can be a serious issue. Fortunately, a drain cleaning Indianapolis service can clear any issues and get your pipes working again. Alternatively, if you live in warmer states like Florida or Texas, debris like leaves, mulch, and grass may be the cause of any blockages.

Get Rid of Ice Dams

Roofs are no stranger to ample wear and tear throughout the seasons. In the winter, however, ice dams can be a particular issue. Ice dams are essentially large ridges of thick, hard-packed ice and snow built up on the edge of your roof. In turn, water is prevented from draining properly, which results in expensive roof leaks. So, be sure to check your roof for ice dams. If you spot a line of melted snow on the top of your roof leading down to snow at the bottom, this can indicate an ice dam. Fortunately, any snow and ice can simply be removed with a snow rake.

Giving your home exterior a mid-winter checkup is key to keeping it in good condition. By looking after your siding and drains, and checking for ice dams, you can keep your home safe, comfortable, and efficient in the months to come.

Click the links below for any posts you have missed:

Can You Use Your Garden to Entertain Guests, Even In the Winter?

How to Knit a Blanket Like a Pro

5 Secrets to Give Your Home a Luxurious Look on a Budget

First Things to Do When You Move Into a New Home

7 Tips to Keep Your Home Warm this Winter

Tips and Tricks to Save Money on the Utility Bills of Your Home

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