It looks like it’s time to trade in that rake for a shovel. Whether you like it or not, the Chicagoland weather forecast is calling for snow showers this weekend. Is your home winter-ready? Here are a few items to consider for a smooth seasonal transition…

Lay the groundwork – Now is the last chance to rake up leaves, reseed the lawn, or apply a winter fertilizer. While you are at it, drain your sprinkler system, shut off the main valve and disconnect your garden hose to prevent pipes from freezing or bursting. It’s also a good idea to clean out your gutters and remove any tree branches that seem unsteady or close to wires.

All Hands on Deck – Thoroughly clean your deck, or at least give it a good sweep to clean off leaves and debris. You should also clean and properly store your patio furniture as well as seasonal tools like lawnmowers and weed whackers. While you are at it, empty and store your planters and gardening tools too. You will thank yourself come spring for having all of these ducks in a row.

What’s inside counts too – Inspect your fireplace, furnace, and boiler. It is better to detect and fix problems early on versus in the middle of a snowstorm. You should also replace batteries in your fire and carbon monoxide detectors.

Hope for the best, prepare for the worst – It could be one inch of snow, it could one foot. Be ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way by keeping your snow blower, shovels, and plenty of salt on hand. It’s also a good idea to keep these items in the front of your shed or garage for easy access.

Do you have any other tips for getting your home winter-ready?