Preparing Your Home for Winter Storms: Lessons from a Lifetime in Minnesota
By Martha Wilkins
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After 40 Minnesota winters and helping neighbors through three major ice storms, I've learned that preparation isn't about buying fancy gear - it's about smart planning. Here's what actually works when the mercury drops.
1. The Roof Check Most People Miss
Last December, my neighbor Tom learned the hard way why roof prep matters:
"I cleared the gutters but forgot the attic vents. Woke up to ice dams anyway - cost me $2,800 in repairs!"
Roof Prep Checklist
- Clean gutters after leaves fall but before first snow
- Check attic insulation (aim for R-38 minimum)
- Install heated cables on north-facing roof edges
- Trim tree branches within 6 feet of roof
2. Pipe Protection That Works
My $15 foam pipe insulation setup
Forget expensive systems - here's my battle-tested method:
| Material | Cost | Effectiveness |
|---|---|---|
| Foam tubes | $0.50/ft | ★★★☆☆ |
| Heat tape | $1.20/ft | ★★★★☆ |
| Old towels | Free | ★☆☆☆☆ |
3. The Real Emergency Kit
After the 1991 blackout, we learned what actually matters:
Must-Have Items
- Hand-crank radio (not battery-powered)
- Chemical hand warmers (6+ pairs)
- Board games (seriously!)
- Manual can opener