Reporting by Blaise Mesa, Milwaukee Journal Sentinel / Milwaukee Journal Sentinel
While highs in the 70s and lows in the 40s and 50s are expected this week in Milwaukee, it won’t be long before temperatures begin to drop as winter gets closer. The first frost date in Milwaukee tends to fall in mid-October.
There are a few simple things you can do to your home now to prepare for frigid temperatures.
Unhook your hoses
A quick but important step, disconnecting hoses from your outdoor faucets prevents any trapped water from freezing and causing damage, according to the Farmers’ Almanac. Be sure to also drain rain barrels, bird baths or anything else with water.
If you can, store your hoses inside a shed, garage, basement or another protected location.
Check your garden
Some plants can be damaged when temperatures drop below 50 degrees, the Farmers’ Almanac said. They need to come inside. That includes geraniums, houseplants that spent summer outside and tropical plants.
It might also be time to harvest any vegetables you planted. Carrots, parsley and beets can handle a light frost, but tomatoes, potatoes and beans can’t handle any frost, according to South Dakota State University Extension.
Plant your spring bulbs
It’s time to plant tulips, daffodils and other spring-flowering bulbs.
“You want bulbs in the soil early enough to establish roots, but not so early that warm conditions encourage excessive top growth,” the Farmers’ Almanac said.
While you’re at it, any tender bulbs like cannas, caladiums or dahlias can come out of the ground. Putting down some mulch is also recommended.
Clean the gutters
While it’s unlikely to be anyone’s favorite chore, cleaning your gutters before winter eventually helps melting snow drain properly, according to Lowe’s.
Typically it’s recommended to clean your gutters once the last leaves have fallen. That hasn’t happened yet in the Milwaukee area, but the time is coming.
Check windows and doors for air leaks
It’s better to find a crack in the window now than when temperatures outside are below freezing.
You can use caulk, foam, sealant or weatherstripping to plug any minor leaks around windows and doors, according to Realtor.com. However, more significant repairs could require professional help.
Clean the fireplace
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, make sure your chimney is clean. If you’re consistent, you can typically do the cleaning yourself, though it does mean getting on the roof and giving the chimney a scrub, Realtor.com said.
If it has been awhile since you’ve cleaned your chimney, a professional can give it a thorough cleaning before winter arrives.
This article originally appeared on Milwaukee Journal Sentinel: Cold weather is coming to Wisconsin. How to get your home ready
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