Midwest weather is unpredictable. One week you’re running the AC, the next you’re scraping frost off your windshield. The same rollercoaster your car endures also impacts your home. In Episode 10 of The STAN’dard, Liz and Kevin talk about how to prepare your home exterior for both extremes, heat and cold, so your siding, roof, decks, and gutters can handle whatever comes next.

At Stan’s Roofing, Siding, Decks & Unlimited Basements, we’ve seen it all: cracked shingles from summer heat, warped decks from humidity, and frozen gutters that turn into miniature waterfalls. Seasonal prep keeps your home comfortable, efficient, and problem-free all year long.

1. Start at the Top: Roof Readiness

Your roof takes the biggest beating in every season. In winter, ice dams and heavy snow test its strength. In summer, UV rays and heat cause expansion and curling.

Before the cold sets in, inspect for missing shingles, cracked flashing, or soft spots. Clear off debris, check around chimneys and vents, and make sure attic insulation is thick enough — around 18 inches — to prevent heat loss.

Before summer, look for granule loss, algae growth, and ventilation blockages. Proper airflow in your attic helps keep cooling costs down.

đź’ˇ Pro Tip: After every major season change, give your roof a quick visual inspection. Catching small issues now saves major repairs later.

2. Protecting Your Siding

Your siding faces constant temperature swings that can cause expansion, cracking, or fading. During winter, make sure caulking around windows and doors is sealed tight to block drafts.

In the summer, rinse your siding with a garden hose to remove dirt, pollen, and mildew. For vinyl or LP SmartSide, a soft brush and mild soap are all you need. Avoid pressure washing unless done by a professional.

💡 Watch for signs like peeling paint or warping. They may look cosmetic, but they’re often the first signs of water intrusion.

3. Keep Gutters and Downspouts Clear

Clogged gutters are one of the top causes of roof and siding damage. In winter, trapped water can freeze, expand, and pull gutters away from your home. In summer, heavy rains overflow and flood the foundation.

Clean gutters at least twice a year — once before winter and again after spring. Make sure downspouts extend six feet away from your foundation. Consider adding gutter guards if cleaning is becoming a chore.

💡 Remember Kevin’s line from the podcast: “Your gutters don’t just carry water — they carry responsibility.”

4. Deck and Outdoor Structure Care

Winter snow, spring rain, and summer sun all take a toll on decks and porches. Before winter, sweep away debris and apply a water-repellent sealer to protect against moisture. Tighten loose screws and check railings for movement.

In the summer, clean the deck surface and reapply sealer if water no longer beads on top. This helps prevent warping and splintering. If your deck boards look gray or feel soft, it may be time for repair or replacement.

đź’ˇ If your deck connects to the house, check that flashing is still intact to prevent leaks where the two meet.

5. Don’t Forget Your Basement and Drainage

Water finds every weakness, especially when snow melts or storms roll in. Before winter, test your sump pump by pouring a bucket of water into the pit to make sure it activates properly.

In the spring and summer, confirm your yard grading slopes away from your foundation and that window wells drain freely. If your basement feels damp or musty, consider dehumidifying and checking for cracks before the next rainy season.

đź’ˇ Our Unlimited Basement System keeps lower levels dry year-round, even in the worst downpours.

6. Seasonal Energy Efficiency Check

Insulation and ventilation are just as important as materials. In winter, make sure your attic and crawl spaces are properly insulated to hold in heat. In summer, ensure vents are unobstructed to let hot air escape.

Switching to a programmable thermostat and sealing drafty doors or windows can lower energy costs by up to 20 percent annually.

💡 Energy efficiency isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting every part of your home from extreme temperature swings.

Seasonal maintenance is one of the smartest investments you can make. A few hours of prep in the fall and spring can save thousands in repairs later. Whether it’s inspecting a roof, sealing siding, or protecting a deck, keeping your exterior ready for the seasons is what keeps your home strong for decades to come.

At Stan’s Roofing, Siding, Decks & Unlimited Basements, we help homeowners across Illinois prepare their homes the right way, with free inspections, expert repairs, and honest advice every step of the way.

đź“ž Call (708) 448-4100 or visit www.stansroofingandsiding.com to schedule your seasonal inspection today.