Preparing for Winter in Green Bay

Green Bay winters can be brutal. Averaging almost 46 inches of snow each winter, it is important to take steps to avoid any mid-winter problems, and to avoid term damage to your home. Use these tips from Distinctive Cabinets to lower your winter energy bills and keep you and your family cozy this winter season.

Here are a few of the first steps to take before the weather turns, starting with exterior maintenance.

Lawn and Garden

• Winterize your lawn by aerating and applying a winter fertilizer before the ground freezes
• Bring any fragile clay or porcelain pots indoors and clean to avoid freezing and cracking
• Trim back any trees or hedges that are overgrown or are overhanging your home. Ice and snow buildup can cause them to break causing damage not only to the plant but potentially to your home
• Clean any leaves or needles from decks and around downspouts
• Inspect any outdoor wooden surfaces such as decks, handrails or planters. Treat them if necessary to prevent any damage during the moist winter
• Shut off any exterior faucets and drain the lines to prevent any pipes from freezing or cracking. The average winter low temperature in Green Bay is less than 10°F, which will cause any water to freeze and expand. The same also goes for any water lines for sprinklers you may have
• Remove any hoses from your yard or deck, drain them and store them indoors to prevent freezing and warping
• If you have space, bring outdoor furniture indoors. If you do not have space however, clean your furnishings and cover with a heavy tarp to prevent any snow or ice damage
• Lastly, for safety, inspect all of your outdoor lighting and handrails to make sure they are all functioning properly and secure. This can prevent slips and falls during icy Green Bay winters

Home Exterior

• Check your roof for any damage to shingles and flashing. Make any necessary repairs before the first snow to make sure you do not have any leaks during the winter. Seal any joints where water can get in and freeze, which will make the problem much worse
• Clean and check all gutters and downspouts to ensure proper drainage all winter long
• Make sure all vents and chimneys have proper coverings on them. Rodents and birds love having a warm spot to spend the winter, but make sure it is not inside your home
• For wooden window frames, check for signs of rot, splitting or decay. Repair or replace the framing if necessary

Winter Tools

• Before you need it, check your snow blower to ensure that it is fully functional. Changing the oil and spark plugs can make it much easier to get it started when that first big snowfall hits
• Winterize other outdoor equipment by cleaning off any debris any emptying gas tanks if necessary
• Organize your garage or shed to make sure that all of your necessary winter equipment is easily accessible. Customized cabinets can keep all of your tools and shovels handy for winter and store your summer equipment until needed again
• Stock up on snow melt, salt or sand to prevent slippery sidewalks or driveways before the stores run out

Just as important as the exterior of the home is the interior. Making your home more energy efficient only takes a few steps, and your time is well worth it to save on your energy bills year round.

Windows and Doors

• Weatherstripping should be checked around all doors and windows. If necessary, install or replace existing damaged weatherstripping to prevent air leaks and heat loss
• If you have storm doors and windows, inspect them for any damage and install them
• If you feel any drafts around window frames, use caulk, inside and out, to keep heat from escaping
• Replace any broken or cracked window panes

Fireplace

• Check your firebox and flue system to ensure that there is no soot or buildup that can create a fire hazard
• Drafty fireplaces, even when the flue is closed, can mean that your damper is warped or damaged. Inspect it and repair or replace as necessary
• Inspect chimney for any cracks or damage and repair as needed

Ventilation and Air Conditioning

• Replace your furnace filter to improve efficiency and improve overall air quality in your home
• Remove any window air conditioning units and make sure the windows are fully sealed and insulated. Clean the air conditioning units and store for winter
• Consider replacing old thermostats with programmable thermostats to save on heating and air conditioning costs year round
• Check that all smoke and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning and have fresh batteries if necessary. Because you have your windows closed during those cold Green Bay winters there is a higher likelihood of dangerous carbon monoxide buildup
• If you have ceiling fans, make sure that they are switched to blow air down for the winter. This will push warm air from the ceiling down toward the floor making your heating more efficient
• Check any exposed ducts for leaks and seal as needed

By taking these steps to make sure your home is ready for winter, you and your family can build your snowmen and sip hot cocoa without worry.