Ready for the Snow! 7 Essential Illinois Winter Home Preparation Tips to Protect Your House

Hello to all our valued clients and homeowners in Illinois. Snow season is officially here, and with it come the frigid temperatures that put our homes' infrastructure to the test. At Kolmena Construction, we know that timely preventive maintenance is the best investment to avoid costly repairs.

Pro Tip: Allowing a small stream of cold water to drip from faucets during nights of extreme cold (temperatures below 20°F) can prevent pipes from freezing by relieving pressure.

Here are the 7 most important tips for Illinois winter home preparation to safeguard your house against the most common damages in our region.

🥶 Area 1: The Biggest Threat — Pipes and Plumbing

1. Insulate Your Most Vulnerable Pipes

Bursting pipes due to freezing is the most expensive winter disaster.

• Identify: Pipes in unheated basements, garages, crawl spaces, and near exterior walls.

• Action: Cover them with foam insulation (available at hardware stores). In extremely cold areas, consider using electrical heat tape.

2. Drain the Exterior Watering System

Turn off the main shutoff valve for water going to your exterior faucets and irrigation lines. Then, open the outdoor faucet to drain any remaining water.

🛡️ Area 2: Your Home's Shield — Roofs and Drainage

3. Deep Clean and Inspect Your Gutters

Gutters clogged with leaves or debris are the main cause of Ice Dams.

• Action: Thoroughly clean all gutters and ensure downspouts are clear. If water cannot drain, it will freeze, forming a barrier that forces water up under your shingles and into your walls and ceilings.

4. Check and Upgrade Your Attic Insulation

A poorly insulated or ventilated attic allows heat from your house to escape, melting the snow on the roof. This water quickly refreezes at the cold eaves, creating dangerous ice dams.

• Action: Confirm that your attic insulation is adequate for the Illinois climate (consult an expert if you have doubts).

🔥 Area 3: Staying Warm — Heating and Efficiency

5. Schedule Annual Furnace or Boiler Maintenance

Before running your system for the winter, call a certified HVAC technician. They will ensure your equipment:

• Operates at maximum efficiency (saving energy).

• Poses no safety risks (such as carbon monoxide leaks).

6. Seal Air Leaks

Use weatherstripping to seal windows and doors. Small air leaks can add up to significant heat loss. This will not only keep you more comfortable but will also drastically reduce your heating bills.

🛠️ Area 4: After the Snowfall — Preventing Major Damage

7. Safely Remove Snow from the Roof

If you have a heavy accumulation of snow (especially wet snow) on the roof, use a long roof rake to remove it. Snow overload can damage the roof structure.

Safety Warning! Never use a ladder on ice or attempt to climb onto the roof without proper safety gear. If the snow is heavy or the roof is high, hire professionals.

Your home is your biggest investment. At Kolmena Construction, we are ready to help you complete those preventive repairs (such as insulation, roofing, or drainage) before the storms hit. Contact us today for your winter inspection!