Winter in Nebraska can arrive fast, and once the snow starts piling up, unprepared homeowners often face avoidable damage, safety risks, and stressful cleanup. Before the first cold front blows in, take time to winter-proof your property. This checklist will help you get your home ready and ensure you’re fully prepared to rely on a professional Omaha snow removal service when the storms begin.
Preparing Your Property for Winter: Snow Removal Checklist
Step #1 – Ice Dams No More! Clean the Gutters & Downspouts
Get rid of the leaves, old birds’ nests, and anything blocking the flow of water through our gutters and downspouts. If you don’t, you’ll end up with ice dams forming. Ice buildup can be dangerous. The result could cost you a replacement bill when the ice thaws.
Step #2 – Trim The Trees! Keep Branches in Check to Dodge Snowy Mishaps
Trees collect snow on the canopy and if the weight exceeds the branch strength, then a drop occurs. Branches could end up on the roof of your home or a boundary wall – or worse, your neighbor’s wall. Trim the branches and remove dead wood for peace of mind and to ensure a safe winter experience in your yard.
Step #3 – Smooth the Path: Fix Walkway and Driveway Cracks Now
When concrete and other building materials contract under cold temperatures, they cause extensive cracking. So, if you already have cracks on walkways and driveways, the cold weather exacerbates the problem and spreads the crack. Tend to these issues and fix them before the mercury drops into the freezing range.
Step #4 – Stay a Step Ahead: De-ice Before the First Big Freeze
There’s nothing quite as unnerving as slipping on a frozen walkway when you’re heading out to go to work in the morning. Stay ahead of the curve and de-ice the driveway and walkways around your home before it’s too late.
Follow the manufacturer’s instructions when applying ice melt to your property. Ideally, you should apply ice melt before ice and snow appear. Use caution around pets.
Step #5 – Winter-Proof the Roof: Clear Debris and Inspect for Damage
Check the roof for damage and signs of wear and tear before the winter weather arrives. Check for loose shingles or cracks in the rubber membrane if you have a flat roof.
Water leaks cause horrendous damage. They’re also difficult to fix when your roof is buried under a snowfall.
Step #6 – Protect the Pipework! Insulate and Winterize to Prevent Bursts
Water and frozen pipes don’t mix. Prevent the hassle of replacing exposed pipework when spring arrives by insulating your pipes and fittings. It’s a simple task and saves you a huge headache if the pipework bursts and floods your home. Water damage is expensive to repair.
Step #7 – Have a Snow Removal Plan for Shoveling
Shoveling out the driveway after a heavy snowfall is harder than you think. It’s a real workout, and if you don’t have a snow and ice removal plan for it, you could get snowed under. Unless you feel like toiling with a snow shovel to remove snow, consider investing in a snow blower this winter season. Snow removal equipment does the heavy clearing work for you.
Step #8 – Winter Survival Prep: Stock Up on Storm Essentials
Winter storms can lead to power outages, frozen roads, and periods where leaving your home isn’t possible. Stay prepared with a well-stocked supply kit. Here are the essentials every household should have on hand:
Winter Emergency Essentials Checklist:
- Bottled water
- Non-perishable canned or packaged foods
- Flashlights with extra batteries
- Backup power source or generator
- Warm blankets and thermal clothing
- Ice melt or salt for walkways
- First-aid kit
- Phone chargers and portable power banks
- Snow shovel or handheld ice scraper
- Prescription medications and pet supplies
Having these items ready ensures your family stays safe, warm, and comfortable during unexpected winter conditions.
Stay Winter-Ready With Omaha’s Most Reliable Snow Removal Service from JPO Lawn & Snow
A proactive winter plan keeps your property safer and reduces the risk of damage when severe weather hits. Professional snow and ice management services provide faster clearing, safer surfaces, and consistent maintenance throughout the season.
JPO Lawn & Snow is a full-service provider of residential and commercial snow removal services in Omaha, NE. Our mission is to provide exceptional service that exceeds our clients’ expectations and leaves them with a beautiful, well-maintained property year-round. We take pride in our work and strive to exceed our client’s expectations every time.
Contact us today to schedule a consultation and let us show you why we are the best choice for all your lawn and snow needs.