Frozen pipes and falling limbs: Tips to prepare your home for winter weather

(InvestigateTV) — Every year, about 250,000 homes in the U.S. suffer damage from frozen and burst water pipes, according to NerdWallet. These unexpected disasters can wreak havoc on your home—and your wallet.

While burst pipes are a well-known winter hazard, they’re just the tip of the iceberg. Falling tree limbs during ice or snowstorms can also damage roofs, adding to the list of seasonal threats. That’s why preparing your home for winter weather is crucial.

“It might be as simple as going around with a candle in your hand. I swear—going around the perimeter of the doors and the windows just seeing if there’s drafts coming in,” Holden Lewis, a real estate expert with NerdWallet, said.

Lewis emphasized the importance of insulating pipes, especially those exposed to outdoor temperatures, to prevent freezing. Another must-do: review your homeowner’s insurance policy to ensure it provides adequate coverage.

“That’s something you might want to check every year, just to make sure your coverage is enough,” Lewis said. “You know, you might get coverage that is supposed to pay to replace the house if it’s destroyed in a disaster, and with inflation, that cost can go up.”

Lewis also suggested shopping around for insurance quotes to ensure you’re getting the best value. He cautioned homeowners to compare policies carefully.

“Make sure you are comparing similar coverages and deductibles, so you know what you’d owe out of pocket,” he said.

Winter may be unpredictable, but taking steps to secure your home now can save you time, money, and stress later. From draft-proofing windows to checking your insurance, a little preparation goes a long way in weathering the season’s challenges.

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