Mother Nature has been keeping the New England Region on its toes this winter. From Nor’easters to Snow Bombs, we have seen it all! What takes the brunt of this? Our homes. They deserve credit for keeping us safe, warm and prepared when taking on extreme winter weather. How can we thank them? By protecting them as best as we can. These maintenance tips will allow you and your home to withstand whatever is thrown your way.
Pay attention to your pipes: 
Protect your pipes from freezing. When the temperature drops too low, the liquids inside your pipes freeze and expand, causing pipes to crack and burst. If this goes undetected, this can cause major damage to your home. If you are concerned with freezing pipes, prepare by draining any water from unprotected, outdoor piping. If you have an indoor pipe that is in cooler areas such as your attic or in your garage, insulate them before temperatures drop. If your pipes happen to freeze, immediately shut off your water valves to prevent further damage until they can be tended to.
Unclutter your Gutters: 
During a winter storm that lasts multiple days, be sure to check your gutters for ice dams. An ice dam occurs when snow/ ice melts in your gutters during the warmth of the day, but refreezes at night, causing a clog. Gutters lead water away from your roof and if they become clogged, water can stagnate, causing serious damage to the roof . Be sure to clear your gutters before a storm hits and try to check for ice dams periodically.
Check your fireplace and chimney: 
Our first thought during snow fall is to start a warm, and cozy fire in the fireplace. Before doing so, be sure to have your chimney inspected by a professional. Your fireplace could be housing debris that could catch fire and put your home in danger.
Be aware of snow overload: 
Snow can build up on your roof causing increased weight and the potential of melting and refreezing in your gutters. If you notice that your roof is starting to make a crackling or popping noise, be sure to contact a professional immediately to garner instructions on how to approach next steps. In the meantime, look for ice dams in your gutters and clear what you can to avoid roof damage.
Seal windows and Doors leading to outdoor Spaces: 
Avoid losing heat and high energy costs by taking the time to caulk any cracks and break out your door sweeps to keep warm air in and cold air out. If left unsealed, the overlap in temperatures can cause moisture, which if left unchecked, could lead to damage in the home itself.
Keep up to date: 
Be aware of the storm’s progression, so you can make sure you properly tend to changes in temperature. Check your local news channels and be mindful of the resources that can protect both your family and your home. Gather more safety tips and local updates from mass.gov or your local government system’s website.