The Complete Winter Exterior Home Maintenance Checklist for Maryland Homeowners

Your Winter Exterior Maintenance Guide

Winter in Anne Arundel County demands more from your home's exterior than any other season. Freezing temperatures, snow, ice, and winter storms can expose weaknesses and cause damage that leads to expensive repairs come spring. The good news? Most winter damage is preventable with proactive maintenance.

At Great Oak Roofing, we've helped thousands of Maryland homeowners protect their properties through harsh winters. This comprehensive checklist will guide you through essential maintenance tasks to keep your home's exterior in top condition all winter long.

Before Winter Arrives: Essential Preparation (October - November)

Roof Inspection and Maintenance

Visual Inspection:

• Check for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
• Look for damaged or loose flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights
• Inspect roof valleys for debris accumulation
• Examine attic for signs of leaks or moisture

Immediate Actions:

• Replace damaged shingles before winter weather
• Re-seal flashing if needed
• Ensure attic ventilation is adequate
• Check that insulation meets recommended R-values for Maryland

Professional Help: Schedule a professional roof inspection if your roof is over 15 years old or you notice any concerns.

Gutter System Preparation

Cleaning:

• Remove all leaves, twigs, and debris from gutters and downspouts
• Flush gutters with water to ensure proper drainage
• Clear ground-level drainage outlets
• Remove debris from roof valleys that could wash into gutters

Inspection:

• Check for sagging or misaligned sections
• Inspect seams and joints for leaks
• Ensure all fasteners are secure
• Verify proper slope toward downspouts

Downspout Management:

• Extend downspouts 4-6 feet from foundation
• Consider disconnecting underground drains to prevent ice damage
• Add splash blocks if needed

Protection:

• Install gutter guards to minimize winter debris
• Consider heat cable for problem areas prone to ice

Siding and Exterior Walls

Inspection:

• Look for cracks, holes, or damaged siding panels
• Check caulking around windows and doors
• Examine areas where different materials meet
• Inspect for signs of moisture, mold, or rot

Cleaning:

• Wash siding to remove dirt and debris
• Clear away vegetation touching the house
• Clean area around foundation
• Remove any clinging vines or debris

Repairs:

• Replace or repair damaged siding sections
• Re-caulk around windows, doors, and utility penetrations
• Touch up paint on wood surfaces
• Seal any gaps or cracks

Windows and Doors

Sealing:

• Inspect weatherstripping on all doors and windows
• Replace worn or damaged weatherstripping
• Re-caulk around window and door frames
• Check for drafts and seal with appropriate materials

Storm Protection:

• Install storm windows if available
• Consider window film or plastic sheeting for single-pane windows
• Check that all windows close and lock properly
• Lubricate locks and hinges

Doors:

• Inspect thresholds and replace if damaged
• Install or replace door sweeps
• Check storm door closers and adjust if needed
• Ensure garage doors seal properly

Foundation and Grading

Drainage:

• Ensure ground slopes away from foundation
• Fill in low spots where water might pool
• Clear drainage pathways
• Check that gutters direct water away properly

Inspection:

• Look for cracks or damage in foundation
• Check for signs of moisture or water infiltration
• Inspect basement or crawl space for water entry points
• Seal cracks with appropriate materials

Trees and Landscaping

Tree Maintenance:

• Trim branches hanging over house or within 6 feet of roof
• Remove dead or damaged branches
• Inspect trees for signs of disease or instability
• Consider professional tree service for large or dangerous limbs

Yard Preparation:

• Move lawn furniture and decorative items away from house
• Secure or store items that could become projectiles in storms
• Drain and store garden hoses
• Shut off and drain outdoor faucets

During Winter: Ongoing Maintenance

After Each Snowfall

Roof Care:

• Monitor snow accumulation on roof
• Use a roof rake to remove heavy snow from eaves (if safe to do so)
• Watch for ice dam formation
• Clear snow from around vents and exhausts

Gutters and Downspouts:

• Check that gutters are draining properly
• Remove accessible ice blockages safely
• Ensure downspout outlets remain clear
• Watch for overflow or ice formation

Walkways and Foundation:

• Clear snow from walkways and paths
• Keep snow cleared from foundation walls
• Ensure water can drain away from house
• Use ice melt safe for concrete (calcium chloride, not rock salt)

Weekly Monitoring

Visual Checks:

• Walk around your home weekly
• Look for new damage or changes
• Check for ice dams or icicles
• Monitor siding for ice or water damage

Interior Signs:

• Check attic for signs of leaks or ice
• Monitor for water stains on ceilings or walls
• Watch for unusual drafts
• Note any frozen pipes or water issues

After Winter Storms

Immediate Inspection:

• Check for visible damage from ground level
• Look for debris on roof or in gutters
• Inspect siding for storm damage
• Check trees for broken branches

Document Damage:

• Take photos of any damage
• Note date and time of storm
• Keep records for insurance if needed
• Contact professionals for significant damage

Month-by-Month Winter Tasks

December

• Week 1: Final gutter check and cleaning if needed
• Week 2: Inspect and seal any missed drafts
• Week 3: Test heating system and ensure efficiency
• Week 4: Pre-holiday exterior lighting check

January

• Week 1: Post-holiday exterior inspection
• Week 2: Check attic insulation and ventilation
• Week 3: Monitor for ice dam formation
• Week 4: Inspect foundation after freeze-thaw cycles

February

• Week 1: Mid-winter roof inspection
• Week 2: Check for winter wildlife intrusion
• Week 3: Assess any accumulated damage
• Week 4: Begin planning spring repairs

March

• Week 1: Inspect for late-season snow damage
• Week 2: Check gutters as snow melts
• Week 3: Begin early spring cleanup
• Week 4: Schedule professional inspections for spring repairs

Emergency Preparedness

What to Have Ready

Basic Supplies:

• Heavy-duty tarps and rope
• Emergency roof patch materials
• Plywood for broken windows
• Rock salt or ice melt
• Snow removal tools

Contact Information:

• Great Oak Roofing emergency line: (410) 378-7663
• Insurance company
• Utility companies
• Tree service
• Plumber (for frozen pipe emergencies)

Emergency Situations

Call Immediately If You Experience:

• Active roof leaks
• Significant structural damage
• Downed trees or large branches on roof
• Extensive ice dam with interior water intrusion
• Siding or window damage exposing interior

Temporary Measures:

• Contain water with buckets and towels
• Cover damaged areas with tarps if safely accessible
• Document damage with photos
• Move valuables away from affected areas
• Turn off water if pipes are compromised

Special Considerations for Maryland Homes

Coastal Properties

Additional Concerns:

• Higher humidity and moisture
• Salt air corrosion on metal components
• Stronger wind exposure
• Flooding potential

Extra Steps:

• Rinse salt exposure from siding and gutters
• Check metal components more frequently
• Ensure superior drainage systems
• Consider corrosion-resistant materials

Historic Homes

Unique Challenges:

• Older materials more vulnerable to freeze-thaw
• Original windows less efficient
• Period-appropriate repair requirements
• Preservation considerations

Special Care:

• Work with preservation specialists
• Use appropriate repair materials
• Document all maintenance carefully
• Consider reversible weatherization improvements

New Construction

First Winter Considerations:

• Materials still settling
• Landscaping not fully established
• New drainage patterns developing
• Warranty coverage for issues

Monitoring:

• Document any settling cracks
• Ensure drainage working as designed
• Contact builder for warranty issues
• Establish maintenance routines

Professional Services to Consider

Fall Preparation Services

Great Oak Roofing Offers:

• Comprehensive exterior inspections
• Professional gutter cleaning
• Roof repairs and maintenance
• Siding repairs and sealing
• Window and door weatherization

Winter Maintenance Services

Ongoing Support:

• Emergency repair services
• Snow and ice damage assessment
• Storm damage response
• Regular monitoring for high-risk properties

Spring Repair Planning

Post-Winter Services:

• Damage assessment and documentation
• Repair quotes and scheduling
• Insurance claim assistance
• Full restoration services

The Great Oak Roofing Difference

Why Choose Us for Winter Maintenance

Local Expertise:

• Decades of Maryland winter experience
• Understanding of regional challenges
• Knowledge of local building codes
• Relationships with local suppliers

Comprehensive Services:

• Full exterior maintenance capabilities
• Emergency response availability
• Professional, certified technicians
• Quality materials and workmanship

Customer Commitment:

• Honest assessments and fair pricing
• Detailed documentation and reporting
• Insurance claim assistance
• Satisfaction guarantee

Return on Investment

Costs of Prevention

• Fall maintenance package: $300-600
• Gutter guards and protection: $800-2,000 (one-time)
• Professional inspection: Often free with service
• Minor repairs: $200-500

Costs of Neglect

• Ice dam water damage: $5,000-15,000+
• Foundation damage from poor drainage: $10,000-30,000+
• Siding replacement from freeze damage: $5,000-20,000+
• Roof replacement from storm damage: $10,000-25,000+

Prevention saves thousands. Regular maintenance is always less expensive than emergency repairs.

Take Action Now

Don't wait for winter damage to occur. Whether you're preparing for the season or dealing with ongoing winter challenges, Great Oak Roofing is here to help protect your home.

From Severna Park and Annapolis to Bowie, Glen Burnie, and throughout Anne Arundel County, we're your trusted partner for winter exterior maintenance. Our experienced team knows exactly what Maryland homes need to weather the toughest winters.

Contact us today for a comprehensive winter exterior assessment and let us help you protect your most valuable investment.

📍 Serving: Severna Park, Annapolis, Bowie, Arnold, Glen Burnie, Crofton, Davidsonville, Edgewater, Severn, Crownsville, Pasadena, Gambrills, Millersville, Odenton, and all of Anne Arundel County

📞 Call now at (410) 378-7663 to schedule your winter maintenance consultation and enjoy peace of mind all season long!