How to Prepare Your Property for Cody’s Harsh Winters

Cody, Wyoming winters can be brutal. Freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and icy conditions can wreak havoc on your home or business if you’re not prepared. But don’t worry, Freedom Exterior Services is here to help! Here’s a checklist to get your property winter-ready and protect your investment:

1. Gutter Cleaning:

Clear out debris: Leaves, twigs, and other debris can clog gutters, preventing proper drainage. This can lead to ice dams, which can damage your roof, gutters, and even your home’s interior.
Check for damage: Inspect your gutters for any cracks, holes, or loose sections. Repair or replace damaged sections to ensure they function correctly.
Consider gutter guards: Gutter guards can help prevent future clogs and reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

2. Snow Prep:
Gather your tools: Make sure you have shovels, snow blowers, and ice scrapers readily available.
Protect your landscaping: Trim trees and shrubs near your home to prevent them from breaking under the weight of snow and ice.
Prepare walkways and driveways: Stock up on salt or sand to melt ice and improve traction.

3. Ice Prevention:
Insulate pipes: Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like crawl spaces and attics to prevent them from freezing and bursting.
Seal air leaks: Caulk and weatherstrip windows and doors to prevent drafts and reduce heat loss. This will help keep your home warmer and prevent ice from forming on windows and doors.
Ventilate your attic: Proper attic ventilation helps regulate temperature and prevents ice dams from forming.

4. Roof Inspection:
Check for damage: Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or leaks. Winter storms can worsen existing problems.
Trim overhanging branches: Prevent damage from falling branches during wind or heavy snow.

5. Outdoor Maintenance:
Disconnect hoses: Detach garden hoses and store them indoors to prevent them from freezing and cracking.
Shut off outdoor faucets: Turn off the water supply to outdoor faucets and drain any remaining water to prevent freezing.
Cover outdoor furniture: Protect your outdoor furniture from the elements by covering it or storing it indoors.
Why Proactive Winterization Matters:
Taking these steps to winterize your property can save you money and headaches in the long run. Proactive maintenance helps:
Prevent costly repairs: Addressing minor issues before they become major problems can save you thousands of dollars in repairs.
Extend the life of your property: Proper maintenance helps protect your investment and keeps your home or business in good condition for years to come.
Ensure safety and comfort: A well-maintained property is a safer and more comfortable place to live or work during the winter months.

Freedom Exterior Services Can Help!
If you need assistance with any of these winterization tasks, don’t hesitate to contact Freedom Exterior Services. We offer professional gutter cleaning, snow removal, and other services to help you prepare your property for winter. Give us a call today for a free estimate!