Wisconsinites: We’ve made it through another spectacular winter! The snow is melting, spring flowers are blooming, and birdsong can be heard around the region.
While harsh winters are just par for the course in this beautiful state, that doesn’t mean our homes are always set up to weather the winter elements well. Snow, ice, wind, and freeze-thaw cycles put our roofs, siding, and other exterior materials to the test. And with all that snow piled up on your roof and around your home, it’s easy to miss signs of damage until spring arrives.
Leaving winter damage unchecked will only allow it to get worse over time. As the ice thaws and spring approaches, now may be a good time to consider what this winter has revealed about your home’s exterior, and what you can do about it before next year.
How Did Your Home Perform This Winter?
Many homeowners believe that a drafty house is normal during Wisconsin’s freezing winter months. They might also think that issues like icicles dotting the roofline and shingles breaking loose after a blizzard are simply to be expected.
But in reality, homes can feel comfortable and withstand harsh weather all year long with the right systems in place. While you may feel that your heating is working efficiently, it’s also worth considering how your exterior materials affect what your home feels like inside.
What did your family experience this winter? Maybe you noticed:
- Ice dams forming along the roof
- Rooms feeling drafty or cold near windows
- Higher heating bills than last year
- Siding or trim shifting after winter storms
- Shingles or roofing granules leaving noticeable gaps in your roof
Winter tends to reveal how well your home’s exterior is really performing. A comfortable home depends on everything working together to shield you and your family from the elements.
Roofing: Your Home’s First Line of Defense
Your roof has an important job to do in the winter months, protecting against ice, snow, sleet, strong winds, and moisture intrusion. But harsh winter weather can damage your roof, allowing moisture to creep in and create bigger problems over time.
You might notice a few signs that your roof system is failing, such as:
- Missing or lifted shingles
- Granule loss
- Flashing issues
- Ice dam damage
Even small signs may indicate that a roof is nearing the end of its lifespan. Come next winter, it may no longer offer your home the protection it needs.
Siding: Protecting Your Home From the Elements
Siding protects your home against wind, snow, and pests, acting as a “skin” for your house. Have you noticed cracked or loose siding panels, movement from winter storms, or moisture intrusion? Your siding may not be doing its job as well as it should.
Upgrading your siding material is an easy way to improve your home’s durability and protection during harsh winter storms and everyday Wisconsin weather. It also gives your home a fresh look with noticeable curb appeal year after year.
Windows and Doors: Comfort and Energy Efficiency
Your windows and exterior doors are responsible for sealing your home against winter winds and cold temperatures. But if you’re noticing drafts and other signs of inefficiency, they may be crying for help.
Try this: Go around your house and stand a few feet back from each of your exterior doors. Do you notice any light seeping in around the door frame? Next, place a hand on the wall next to exterior doors and windows, checking for outside air leaking through the frame. The outside air may be sneaking into your home all winter long, causing your heating system to work harder to maintain the desired temperature.
When Winter Reveals It’s Time for an Upgrade
You deserve a warm, comfortable home for weathering the Wisconsin winters. But if your home’s exterior is like many, it isn’t doing its job as well as it could be to keep your family cozy and dry indoors.
Many of the homes we work on throughout the Madison area were built two to three decades ago and are reaching the point where exterior materials are ready for updates that improve both durability and long-term value. While repairs might appear to solve the problem, they often only delay the need for replacement and cause more issues down the road.
Thoughtful exterior upgrades can improve durability, comfort, and performance throughout Wisconsin’s changing seasons.
5 Signs Winter Was Hard on Your Home
Once the snow starts to melt, look for these five key signs that your home took a beating this winter:
- Missing or curling shingles
- Ice dam damage or roof staining
- Cracked or loose siding panels
- Drafts or condensation around windows
- Rising energy bills during winter
If you notice any of these concerns, they may become bigger problems next winter. Now is the time to start planning upgrades that will help your home withstand the elements year after year.
Preparing Your Home for the Seasons Ahead
Spring is on the horizon, but you aren’t out of the woods for exterior damage and disrepair. Wisconsin’s weather is demanding year-round, and neglecting small problems now will only lead to more serious concerns down the road.
The best exterior systems shield your home from rain, snow, wind, and storm debris, protecting your family and your investment. If you’re noticing signs that your home’s exterior may need attention, our team would be happy to start with a home exterior inspection, then help you evaluate your options. Give Sims Exteriors and Remodeling a call at 608-825-4500 for a consultation.