Ask a Patch Pro: How to Winterize Your Home

If Benjamin Franklin was born Minnesotan, he may have added 'winter' to his list of certainties in his famous quote: "In this world nothing can be said to be certain, except death and taxes."

As the days grow shorter and the thermometer continues its steady, downward slide, many of us are preparing as best we can for the long dark months ahead. But when it comes to winterizing your home, do you know what necessary steps should be taken or best methods used?

Here to help with our preparations are three "Patch Pros"—local home repair and maintenance specialists that have agreed to answer your questions and address your concerns regarding home winterization in the comments section below.

Our first expert is Lindsay Reddy, the owner of the Eagan-based business Jack of All Trades Handyman. You can also expect to hear from Scott Dodge and Adam Bressler from Builders and Remodelers.

Our panel of three experts will regularly check the comments below and try to answer your questions for this "Ask a Patch Pro" feature beginning Tuesday, Oct. 30, 2012. Thanks to all our Patch pros and questioners for participating!

Check out some of our previous installments in the "Ask a Patch Pro" series:

• Ask a Patch Pro: Wine
• Ask a Patch Pro: Pedestrian Safety
• Ask a Patch Pro: Recycling and Composting
• Ask a Patch Panel: Breast Cancer
• Ask the Patch Pro: All About Real Estate