Winter is coming

Winter Is Coming

Winter is coming

Halloween is coming up and the fall season is fully underway. Fall brings cool, temperate weather that is anticipated after a hot summer. However, fall also means that winter is right around the corner.

Astronomical seasons are based on the position of the Earth in relation to the sun, whereas meteorological seasons are based on the annual temperature cycle.The first day of astronomical winter is December 21, and in some places, you’ll need to break out the ice scraper for your car before then.

Using data from the 1991–2020 U.S. Climate Normals, we have a good idea of when to expect the first freeze of fall. The first freeze can be described as when the surface air temperature is expected to be 32°F or below over a widespread area for a climatologically significant time.

Meteorological winter begins on the first of December and lasts until the end of February.

The long-awaited 2023-2024 edition of the Old Farmer’s Almanac revealed a cold, snowy outlook for most of the country, including Illinois.

This year, snowfall amounts are predicted to meet or slightly exceed normal numbers, according to the Almanac. Temperatures are anticipated to be around average, meaning cold with some days feeling an extra chill in the air, according to this year’s prediction.

Winter in the Midwest and the Northeast may start a little sooner this year, too.

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4 Basic Ways to Prepare Your Property for Winter

1. Have your roof inspected

This step may be one of the most important when preparing a house for winter. If you are unable to access your home’s roof, you can get it inspected by a contractor to look for loose or broken shingles. Winter storms, including heavy rain and especially hail, are notorious for wreaking havoc on a roof, so it’s important you repair any damage before your roof gets its toughest test: packed snow.

2. Clean your gutters

You should clean your gutters every season, but right before winter might be the most critical time to do so. If your area gets a lot of snow, your home will have to bear that additional weight. If your gutters get too much weight on them, they could be pulled from your home.

3. Cut back tree branches

You should clean your gutters every season, but right before winter might be the most critical time to do so. If your area gets a lot of snow, your home will have to bear that additional weight. If your gutters get too much weight on them, they could be pulled from your home.

4. Check the seal of your windows and doors

Recaulk your windows and doors each year to prevent water damage and heat loss. A caulk gun and exterior caulk is relatively inexpensive, and you can usually complete the task in a matter of hours.

To be clear, you should only caulk the outside perimeter of your windows and doors’ molding. Use exterior silicone caulk because it is less affected by extreme temperatures — meaning it won’t shrink and expand as the seasons change.

Already have damage that needs attention?

Reach out to our team to get a free in-home inspection.
Winter is coming