Your home’s exterior is the first line of defense when it comes to the forces of nature and there is no time that this is more true than during harsh Nebraska winters. The wind, ice, snow, and sub-zero temps can take a serious toll on your property, leading to wear and tear and expensive repairs as well as decreasing the curb appeal of your home. Fortunately, you can learn how to protect your house from the environment so it remains safe, comfortable, and visually appealing for years to come. Here are some tips and tricks to protect your home’s exterior.

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof Regularly

Your roof is vital when it comes to protecting your home from snow, hail, ice, and wind. To prevent leaks and other issues, you need to make sure your roof is inspected regularly—especially after a storm. You can either get up on the roof and take a look at it yourself or call in an expert to do it for you. Here are some things to look for:

• Missing or damaged shingles: Wind can blow shingles off or cause them to lift, creating potential leaks. If you notice any damaged shingles, replace them immediately.
• Clean gutters and downspouts: Blocked gutters can cause water to pool on your roof, leading to water damage. Clean gutters regularly to ensure proper water flow.
• Mold or moss growth: In humid climates, mold and moss can form on your roof, causing deterioration. If you spot any, remove them promptly.

2. Seal Windows and Doors to Prevent Drafts

A simple way to ensure your home stays comfortable and your energy bills stay low is to make sure your doors and windows are properly sealed. Check for gaps and cracks where drafts and moisture can enter. If you find some, here are some ways to seal them:

• Apply weatherstripping: Adding weatherstripping around windows and doors creates a tight seal, preventing drafts and moisture from entering.
• Use caulk for cracks: If you notice small cracks or gaps, fill them with a high-quality caulk to stop air from seeping through.
• Install storm windows and doors: These extra layers of protection add insulation and shield against the elements.

3. Protect Your Siding

Your siding is key when it comes to protecting your home from the elements. Though newer siding is very durable, it can still degrade over time—especially if it’s subjected to harsh weather conditions. Here are some ways you can protect your siding: 

• Use weather-resistant materials: If you’re considering replacing your siding, opt for materials like fiber cement or brick, which are more durable and resistant to the elements.
• Repaint wooden siding: Wooden siding can deteriorate quickly when exposed to moisture, so it’s essential to repaint it every few years. Choose a high-quality exterior paint that can withstand the elements.
• Inspect for damage: Regularly check your siding for cracks, holes, or signs of wear. Any damage should be repaired immediately to prevent moisture infiltration.
• Pressure wash vinyl siding: Vinyl siding can attract dirt and mildew. Use a pressure washer or a garden hose with a cleaning solution to keep it clean and free from buildup.

4. Maintain Your Driveway and Walkways

Don’t forget your walkways and driveways when you’re focused on exterior protection as they are constantly exposed to the elements and will deteriorate over time. Check for cracks, breakdown of materials, and fading on your concrete and asphalt and consider the following maintenance tips:

• Seal cracks: If you notice cracks in your driveway or walkway, seal them promptly to prevent water from seeping in and causing further damage.
• Apply a protective coating: Consider applying a sealant to your driveway or walkway to protect the surface from stains, cracking, and discoloration.
• Shovel snow promptly: In winter, removing snow and ice promptly can prevent damage to your driveway and walkways. Be careful not to use harsh chemicals that could damage the surface.

5. Use Landscaping for Protection

The right landscaping can also protect your home’s exterior from the elements. Strategic planting and maintenance can provide natural insulation, reduce water damage, and even protect your home from wind and erosion. Here are some landscaping tips to consider: 

• Plant trees strategically: Planting trees near your home can provide shade, reducing heat absorption in the summer. Be mindful of tree placement to avoid roots damaging the foundation or branches scraping against your home.
• Create proper drainage: Make sure your yard slopes away from your home to prevent water from pooling around the foundation. Consider adding French drains or other drainage systems to direct water away from your home.
• Use mulch and rocks: Mulch and rocks can protect your home from water damage and erosion, especially around your foundation and in flower beds.

6. Ensure Gutters and Downspouts are Functioning Properly

Gutters play a critical role in directing rainwater away from your home. When gutters are clogged or damaged, water can overflow and damage your roof, siding, and foundation. Make sure your gutters are clean and in good condition by doing the following: 

• Clean gutters regularly: Remove leaves, twigs, and other debris from your gutters to ensure proper water flow.
• Install gutter guards: Gutter guards can prevent debris from entering the gutters, making maintenance easier.
• Check downspouts: Ensure that downspouts are clear and direct water at least 3-5 feet away from the foundation to prevent water damage.

Protecting the exterior of your home from the elements does not have to be overly expensive or difficult. With these tips, you can make sure your home is ready to take on the Nebraska winter. If you do decide you need some help from the experts, reach out to the team at HomeWise Roofing & Exteriors. We’d love to help!