Winterizing Your Chicago Home: Essential Steps to Prevent Disaster

The Windy City is legendary for many reasons — cuisine, architecture, the arts, sports, breathtaking lakefront vistas, and of course, wicked winter weather.

Blizzards, sub-zero temperatures, and icy winds can wreak havoc on your home. Without proper preparation, homeowners risk costly repairs and significant damage. As restoration specialists who’ve helped countless residents recover from winter-related disasters, we know firsthand that prevention is far less costly than repair. 

Now is the perfect time to ensure your home is ready for the wild weather ahead. Our comprehensive guide below will walk you through crucial moves to protect your Chicagoland home from winter’s worst.

Understanding the Risks

Chicago’s location on the shores of Lake Michigan and atop a continental divide creates distinct winter challenges. Lake-effect snow can dump feet of precipitation in hours, while polar vortex events can plunge temperatures well below zero. These conditions put immense stress on residential and commercial buildings, potentially leading to:

• Burst pipes causing extensive water damage
• Ice dam formation resulting in roof leaks and ceiling collapse
• Foundation cracks from freeze-thaw cycles
• Mold growth from improper insulation and ventilation
• Fire hazards from malfunctioning heating systems

Preventive measures can help maintain your home’s structural integrity and preserve your property value.

The Battle Against Frozen Pipes

One of the most common winter-related disasters is frozen pipes. When temperatures drop below freezing, exposed pipes can freeze, expand, and break, leading to a potentially expensive disaster.

Here’s how to protect your plumbing:

• Wrap exposed pipes in foam insulation, especially those in unheated areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces.
• Let faucets drip during extreme cold to keep water flowing and prevent freezing.
• Seal gaps and cracks in walls and around pipes to block cold air from seeping in.
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses to prevent ice buildup in exterior spigots.
• Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature, even when you’re away. A minimum of 65 degrees Fahrenheit is recommended. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Inspect your plumbing system for any existing leaks. Even small leaks can worsen in freezing temperatures. 

Ensure Your Heating System is in Top Shape

A malfunctioning furnace in the middle of winter can leave you freezing and at risk of frozen pipes, mold growth, and health issues. Before the temperatures plummet, home and business owners should schedule a professional HVAC inspection to ensure their systems are working efficiently.

Remember to replace filters regularly to improve air quality and maintain proper airflow. Inspect ducts and vents for leaks and blockages that can reduce heating efficiency — and you may want to install a programmable or smart thermostat to regulate indoor temperatures and save on heating costs.

Protect Your Roof from Snow and Ice Damage

Heavy snow accumulation and ice dams can lead to roof leaks, mold, and a lot of stress for homeowners. Keep a lid on expensive repairs with these proactive steps:

• Inspect and clean gutters to prevent ice dams that cause water backup and leaks.
• Check for loose or damaged shingles and repair them before snow and ice can exacerbate the issue.
• Install heating cables along the roof’s edge to melt ice and prevent buildup.
• Trim overhanging tree branches to prevent them from breaking under heavy snow and damaging your roof.

Seal the Building Envelope

Air leaks around windows and doors not only waste energy but can lead to dangerous ice formation and water infiltration. Apply weather stripping around doors and windows, and pay special attention to areas where utilities enter the home, as these spots are prone to air infiltration.

Use thermal window film to reduce heat loss, and check your door sweeps and thresholds for gaps. Replace lightweight curtains with thermal-lined drapes for added insulation.

It’s also wise to check your attic’s ventilation. Proper airflow helps prevent moisture buildup, which can create the perfect environment for mold growth. Ensure your attic vents are clear and functioning correctly.

Protecting Against Power Outages: Staying Warm and Safe

Fierce winter storms can knock out power, leaving you in the cold and dark. Being prepared is vital:

• Stock up on emergency supplies: Keep a supply of flashlights, batteries, blankets, warm clothing, non-perishable food, and bottled water in a winter emergency kit. Include rock salt or sand for deicing walkways and basic tools.
• Have a backup heating source: Consider investing in a generator or a wood-burning stove for emergency heating. Ensure your household knows how to operate these safely.
• Charge your electronics: Keep your cell phone, tablets, and other electronic devices fully charged in case of a power outage. Add some inexpensive battery packs to your family’s emergency kit. 

Know the location of main utility shut-offs, and create a step-by-step response plan for various winter emergencies, including pipe bursts, power outages, and heating system failures. 

Keep a list of emergency contact numbers handy on your phone, including your local utility company, emergency services, and the 24/7 Paramedics of Property Damage™ at PuroClean of Evanston — we’re always here to help!