7 Ways to Help Your Home Recover From Winter this March

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Mar 09, 2023, 11:57 ET

ERIE, Pa., March 9, 2023 /PRNewswire/ -- Winter can be rough on a home. Once the snow, ice, wind or cold temperatures stop fluctuating, it's a good time to check how your home withstood the season.

When spring arrives, here are seven projects from Erie Insurance to help your home recover from winter.

It's time to spring clean your home - inside and out. Make it easy with these steps from Erie Insurance.

Have your roof inspected. This is especially important if you notice any leaks, loose shingles or metal. The freezing and thawing that was so common this past winter can create big splits out of small cracks. It's a good idea to check with your independent insurance agent to make sure you have the right coverage for your roof.
Fix any ceiling stains. Your ceiling may have a yellow or brown stain if your roof has a leak. If so, first fix the leak before sealing the stain with a sealer/primer then apply a coat or two of paint. Moisture problems can lead to mold or mildew build-up, so fix them quickly before you have a bigger problem on your hands.
Inspect windows and doors. Things to look for on doors include bent or broken hinges, frames or edges. Depending on the extent of the damage, you can either repair or replace the door. Also, check screens for holes before you swap out your storm panels. Check out these helpful tips to keep the cold air out of your home.
Consider resealing your driveway. A lot of water seeps into driveways during the winter, which can create cracks when it freezes then thaws. If you notice a lot of cracks, consider having it resealed to prevent further cracking.
Seal your deck every few years. If your deck is looking worn-down, have it pressure washed and resealed. Changes in weather can significantly impact its durability.
Clean gutters and downspouts. Leaves can weigh things down while ice dams can bend and break gutters. Grab a pair of gloves, a sturdy ladder and a trowel to clear any leaves and debris out. Call a professional if you're not comfortable doing this on your own. Want more tips? Check out this post on how to clean your gutters.
Inspect outside faucets and hoses. Turn them on to ensure water is still running as it should; if you can stop the flow with your thumb, the water pressure may be too low and a pipe inside your home may need to be fixed.

At ERIE, we get the emotional and financial importance of your biggest investment – which is why our homeowners insurance goes the distance. Learn more about what makes our homeowners coverage different, or find a local ERIE agent to request a quote.

About Erie Insurance
According to A.M. Best Company, Erie Insurance Group, based in Erie, Pennsylvania, is the 11th largest homeowners insurer, 13th largest automobile insurer and 13th largest commercial lines insurer in the United States based on direct premiums written. Founded in 1925, Erie Insurance is a Fortune 500 company and the 19th largest property/casualty insurer in the United States based on total lines net premium written. Rated A+ (Superior) by A.M. Best, ERIE has more than 6 million policies in force and operates in 12 states and the District of Columbia. News releases and more information are available on ERIE's website at www.erieinsurance.com.

SOURCE Erie Insurance Group