With the winter season officially here, American homeowners are already in a cautious mode. After the severe snowstorms that hit many states last season, they don’t want to take any chances. Even in states like Texas, where winter is less harsh, most homeowners have a maintenance checklist ready for the colder months.
The Great Texas Freeze of 2021 is a stark reminder that you cannot rely on historical data when it comes to weather predictions. The state will likely get a fair share of rain, sleet, and snow in 2023, making it crucial to build your home’s defense on time. You cannot get complacent, regardless of the predictions and forecasts.
Outdoor preparation is as significant as cozying up your living space. However, most homeowners give little attention to landscaping, windows, roofing, and siding. Missing out on these areas can keep you from enjoying a warm and welcoming interior.
We have a simple guide to help Texas homeowners prepare their home exteriors for the winter season.
Begin with Roofing and Siding Inspection
The roof of your home is the first line of defense against the elements, so it deserves the maximum attention. Inspecting shingles for damage should be the first step. Invest in repairs if necessary. Also, clean gutters to prevent water backup. Siding inspection and maintenance are also vital to keep your outdoor space winter-ready.
Roofing and siding projects prevent snow damage. However, it hardly means you shouldn’t invest in them as a resident of Corpus Christi, a city that rarely experiences snowfall. You should still hire a Corpus Christi siding contractor for a winter maintenance check. Consider calling them before the season is in full swing to prevent last-minute emergencies.
According to Americraft, siding may last for 20 to 40 years, but exposure to extreme temperatures may affect its lifespan. In cities like Corpus Christi, where the summer heat can be excruciating, timely inspection and maintenance are non-negotiable.
Consider Window Repair or Replacement
Blasts of cold Arctic air hit the Lone Star state in 2022, causing residents to stay indoors. The event made them realize the importance of keeping the cold drafts out. Since you may expect similar weather this year, consider evaluating your home’s windows for efficiency and insulation. Sealing drafts with weatherstripping can prevent the entry of wind and minimize heat loss during chilly Texas winters.
You may consider repair or replacement if the exterior windows are damaged or fall short of energy performance. While replacing the windows, upgrade to energy-efficient ones to enhance insulation. The investment may be significant, but it pays back by lowering your energy bills.
Cover Up Your Patio
Covering your patio with a permanent installation is a wise move to safeguard your home from Texas winter chill. Homeowners also opt for patio covers in Corpus Christi, despite the city battling with fewer events of winter rain and cold winds.
They primarily invest in the upgrade to create a cozy outdoor space for entertainment. Covering the patio also offers a safe space for outdoor furniture and appliances. You can move them under the shelter when the weather gets rough. It is an excellent way to enhance the curb appeal of your property.
Prioritize Landscape Maintenance
Besides outdoor repair, maintenance, and upgrades, you should also get back to the basics of winter outdoor preparation. Landscaping maintenance is a must to keep your exteriors in great shape throughout the season. Trim dead branches and prune shrubs to prevent potential hazards of weakened branches during storms.
Invest in lawn care and apply a winter fertilizer to nourish the roots and prevent frost damage. Apply a layer of mulch to insulate the soil. You can cover the sensitive plants with frost cloth and move the potted variants indoors to keep them healthy. Disconnect and drain garden hoses as temperature drops can cause freezing.
Upgrade Outdoor Lighting and Safety Measures
Statistics show that fall injuries are a leading cause of death in American homes, accounting for almost a quarter of all home deaths. Stairs, slippery floors, and fall hazards are a few culprits. However, outdoor hazards are equally responsible for falls at home. They are more likely to happen in winter due to fewer daylight hours and slippery surfaces.
Homeowners in Texas should upgrade their lighting to ensure enough illumination around the exterior space. Also, implement proper safety measures such as clearing the clutter and debris from the driveway and walking path. Remember to apply ice melt on sidewalks to curb slips and falls during frosty conditions.
Winter is harsh on home exteriors, regardless of the location and local weather trends. Like all American homeowners, Texans should implement adequate measures to winterize their outdoor spaces. You cannot leave things to chance, even if the weather is generally less extreme in this state.
Although Texas has relatively mild winters, the freezing spells in recent years indicate the significance of being ready. Consider these actionable tips to maintain your outdoor space this winter and beyond.
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