We might have been spoiled by 80-degree days in mid-October, but make no mistake: Winter is coming to south-central Wisconsin. According to the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, the state likely will experience above-normal chances for precipitation this winter, while the Farmers’ Almanac predicts a “cold, wet and white” winter for Wisconsin.
That means you might not have much longer to safeguard your home for the season — unless you want to do so in less-than-ideal weather conditions. Here are five recommendations to consider as soon as possible.
1. Clean the gutters.
If you don't have a mesh guard over them, your gutters likely are cluttered with leaves, twigs and maybe even other debris. Clogged gutters and downspouts will prevent rain and snow from draining properly. In case of ice dams — which occur when heavy snow buildup on roofs melts during the day and then refreezes as temperatures drop at night, leading to potential interior damage to the attic, ceilings and walls — clear gutters will allow melting roof snow to flow through them toward the spouts. But don’t just check them now; the National Weather Service recommends keeping gutters and downspouts clear from snow and icicles all winter long.
2. Prevent your pipes from freezing.
Double-check outdoor hose bibs to ensure all hoses are disconnected and faucets are turned off and drained; insulate pipes in unheated areas like garages and attics; and if you are away from home for multiple days, set the thermostat to at least 55 degrees and open cabinets where sink plumbing is against an outside wall. Also consider locating the master valve that shuts off water to your entire home and confirming everyone in the household knows where it is in case a pipe does freeze and burst. And, of course, never try to thaw a frozen pipe with an open flame.
3. Trim the trees — and not just the holiday ones.
“If a wintery mix strikes suddenly, it can cause ice to accumulate on your tree limbs before there’s anything you can do about it,” the City of Madison warns. “If the ice builds up too much, it can bring even sturdy branches crashing to the ground.” That’s why it’s important to trim branches that could go through the roof or a window if they were to snap. Sometimes icy buildup can bring down power lines, too, and leave your home without electricity.
4. Tidy up.
Remove leaves from porches, walkways, the driveway and sidewalks. Wet leaves become slushy and slippery, and can lead to falls. Also take a walk around the yard to pick up sticks, twigs and doggie droppings, and then pull up any remnants of your garden to avoid a messy chore in the spring. If you haven’t already, mow the lawn one final time (cutting it lower than usual) and fertilize to help give grass the stamina it needs to make it through the winter.
5. Have your chimney inspected.
It might not be too late to get your chimney inspected. The National Fire Protection Association recommends annual cleanings to ensure that your fireplace and chimney are safe to use, in good condition and operating correctly. “Chimney inspections are crucial due to the vulnerability of chimney systems to damage from fires and moisture,” according to Chimney Specialists Inc. in Highland, Wis. “Early signs of obstruction or deterioration are often subtle, leading homeowners to mistakenly assume their chimney is safe for use. Neglected chimneys can pose serious risks, including house fires and the release of deadly carbon monoxide fumes. Regular inspections help ensure the safety of occupants and prevent potential disasters.”
The arrival of winter might be later than usual this year, but you still need to be prepared. Stay warm, and stay safe.
