Winter in Plano may be milder than in northern states, but that doesn’t mean your home is immune to seasonal wear and tear. Once temperatures drop, neglected repairs can become bigger problems, costing more money and causing unnecessary stress. Don’t let your home’s “ghosts” of neglect come back to haunt you.
By tackling common pre-winter repairs now, you can stay cozy, protect your home, and avoid emergency calls during colder months. Here’s a detailed guide for Plano homeowners on essential pre-winter fixes.
Common “Haunting” Home Repair Issues to Fix Before Winter
1. Drafty Doors and Windows
Cold air sneaks through cracks and gaps, increasing heating costs and making your home uncomfortable. Sealing these leaks is an easy and cost-effective way to improve comfort.
Tip: Apply weatherstripping around doors and caulk gaps around windows. Check sliding doors and garage doors too, as they’re common sources of drafts. Even small fixes can reduce energy bills significantly.
2. Leaky or Damaged Gutters
Clogged or damaged gutters can lead to water pooling near your foundation, ice dams in colder snaps, and damage to siding or landscaping.
Tip: Clear debris from gutters and downspouts, check for cracks or loose sections, and repair as needed. Consider gutter guards to reduce future maintenance and protect your home during fall and winter storms.
3. Roof Repairs
Missing, loose, or damaged shingles make your roof vulnerable to leaks, even in mild Texas winters. Water intrusion can lead to interior damage, mold growth, and costly repairs.
Tip: Inspect your roof for damage, secure loose shingles, and schedule professional repairs for any compromised areas. Early attention prevents bigger headaches later.
4. Cracked or Peeling Exterior Paint
Paint is your home’s first defense against moisture and decay. Fall and winter precipitation can accelerate damage in unprotected areas.
Tip: Touch up cracked or peeling paint and consider repainting exposed areas. Maintaining your exterior paint preserves your home’s structure and appearance.
5. Loose or Damaged Deck Boards
Decks exposed to rain, wind, and fluctuating temperatures can become unsafe when winter arrives. Slippery, rotting, or loose boards create hazards for family and guests.
Tip: Inspect your deck for damaged or loose boards. Tighten screws, replace rotting wood, and reseal surfaces to ensure safety and longevity.
6. Heating System Tune-Up
Even mild Plano winters require occasional heating. A furnace or heat pump breakdown in cold weather can be uncomfortable and costly.
Tip: Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance. Clean filters, check ductwork, and ensure your heating system operates efficiently. Early tune-ups save energy and prevent surprises during chilly nights.
Why Pre-Winter Repairs Save You Time and Money
Addressing these issues before winter helps you avoid:
- Costly emergency repairs in freezing or rainy conditions
- Energy waste from drafts and inefficient systems
- Structural damage caused by moisture, ice, or snow accumulation
- Safety hazards for your family, guests, or pets
Proactive maintenance also improves comfort, reduces stress, and can extend the lifespan of your home’s key systems.
How Mr. Handyman of Plano Can Help
Our skilled team specializes in pre-winter repairs and maintenance to keep Plano homes safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient all season long. We handle:
- Minor caulking and sealing jobs around doors and windows
- Gutter cleaning, inspection, and repairs
- Deck and fence repairs or reinforcement
- Roof inspection and minor fixes
- Exterior paint touch-ups and trim maintenance
- Heating system inspection assistance
With local knowledge of Plano weather and home construction, we ensure that your home is winter-ready without the stress or DIY risk.
Don’t Wait for a Home Repair Scare to Haunt Your Winter
Winter is more enjoyable when your home is safe, comfortable, and well-maintained. Contact Mr. Handyman Plano today to schedule your pre-winter fix-up. Our professional team will handle the necessary repairs and maintenance efficiently, so you can enjoy the season worry-free.
