Winter snowstorms often leave even well-prepared homeowners with a long list of clean-up and repair tasks. Heavy snow, harsh winds, and freezing rain can damage everything from gutters to driveways. Once the snow settles and the sun returns, it’s tempting to relax, but taking care of your home now will keep it safe and comfortable for the rest of winter.
There’s no need to dread post-storm chores. With the right approach, you can tackle the essentials and prevent small problems from turning into bigger headaches down the line.
Here are practical steps to help your home recover after a harsh winter storm.
Try a Soft Wash for Siding
After the thaw, your siding may have streaks, grime, or salt stains. Soft wash Chilliwack uses low-pressure water and mild detergents to lift dirt without harming surfaces. Unlike power washing, which can strip paint or force water into cracks, soft washing is safe for wood, vinyl, and painted siding.
If you’re new to soft washing, look for a kit designed for homeowners or call a local service. This gentle cleaning helps your house look better and prevents mold or mildew as things warm up.
Clear Walkways and Driveways
Fresh snow looks great, but it can quickly become dangerous on stairs, walkways, and driveways. Shovel snow as soon as you can to keep paths clear and avoid packed ice. Use a sturdy shovel with a comfortable grip and push snow rather than lift when possible. This saves your back and clears more area at once.
After shoveling, spread salt or sand to add traction and melt leftover ice. Pay special attention to steps and entryways, where falls are most likely. If you use de-icing products, pick ones that are safe for concrete and pets.
Check Gutters and Downspouts
Gutters fill up quickly with snow, ice, and debris during a storm. If they stay blocked, melting snow can spill over and pool around your foundation. When it’s safe, clear out leaves and slush, and check that downspouts send water away from the house.
Look for sagging or separated gutter sections. They can break under heavy ice. If you see damage, arrange repairs soon to avoid bigger problems later. Keeping water away from your home helps protect your basement and yard from flooding.
Assess Exterior Walls and Windows
Snow and wind push moisture into places you wouldn’t expect. Walk around your house and look for cracks in siding or damaged caulking around windows and doors. Even small gaps can let cold air and water in, causing drafts or rot over time.
If you see any issues, seal them promptly with the right materials. Weatherstripping or exterior caulk work as temporary fixes until you can schedule permanent repairs. Also, clear snow from window wells so water doesn’t pool against basement windows.
Check Heating and Ventilation
Your heating system works hard during a snowstorm. Once the weather calms, check that vents and intake pipes are clear of snow or ice. A clogged vent can reduce efficiency or cause carbon monoxide to build up. Make sure outdoor units for heat pumps or furnaces have enough space around them.
Inside, replace furnace filters if they’re dirty and listen for any unusual noises from the system. If you notice a drop in heat or persistent issues, don’t wait. Call a professional for a checkup to keep everything running smoothly.
Inspect the Roof
Your roof takes the brunt of a snowstorm. Once the weather clears, check for missing shingles, ice dams, or damage from fallen branches. If you see thick ice near the gutters, an ice dam could be forming and blocking melting snow from draining, which may cause leaks inside. Use a roof rake to gently pull off extra snow from the edges, but don’t climb up if it’s slippery or unstable. For anything beyond light debris, it’s safer to call a professional.
Even if everything looks fine from the ground, watch for signs of leaks on ceilings or walls. Water stains or bubbling paint could mean moisture is getting in. Roof cleaning can prevent bigger repairs later.
Look for Water Intrusion
Melting snow sometimes creeps into basements, crawl spaces, or garages, especially if the ground slopes toward the house. Check these areas for damp spots, puddles, or musty smells. Drying out wet areas quickly helps prevent mold from growing.
A portable dehumidifier can help pull extra moisture from the air, especially in enclosed spaces. If water keeps seeping in, improve drainage outside or add a sump pump for peace of mind.
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