Winter weather can be tough on Michigan homes. Fortunately, giving your home some care now will help it withstand winter with ease. Here are four winterizing tips to help you prepare for the coldest months of the year.

• Inspect roof.
  Check that your roof is ready and your shingles are prepared to stand up against snow and ice. Loose, worn shingles, signs of rust, or black algae can all signal damage that could lead to leaks.
• Clean gutters.
  Your roof can’t fully do its job if your gutters are failing. To ensure snow and ice melt away from your home instead of inside it, clear gutters of debris and make sure they are secure and free of damage.  The danger of clogged gutters means your home’s roof is susceptible to ice dams when the temperatures drop and water freezes.
• Direct drainage.
  Winter’s wet weather can damage homes by creating pools near the foundation, leading to structural damage and basement leaks. Make sure soil slopes downward, away from your home.
• Stop air leaks.
  Drafty doors and windows can really ratchet up utility bills.Check your siding and seal up cracks with color-matched caulk. Also caulk around windows and door frames, and areas where pipes and wires enter your home.

Take Care of Your Home Exterior So It Takes Care of You
As you prepare your home for winter, you may come across needs that are beyond what you can do yourself. John McCarter Construction can tackle those professional exterior repair and maintenance needs and make your home beautiful and truly low maintenance! Contact us to schedule a FREE quote for your home exterior projects.