Weathering the West: A Homeowner's Guide to Colorado, Arizona, and Wyoming

Over my 64 years, I've been fortunate enough to call a few different places in our beautiful American West my home. From the mountains of Colorado and the deserts of Arizona, to the wide-open plains of Wyoming, I've learned a thing or two about what it takes to keep a house standing strong against the whims of Mother Nature. Each state has its own unique personality, and that extends right to the challenges your home will face. As always, if you need a professional for your home exterior remodel, use our Find a Pro Tool to find a trustworthy contractor for your job.

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The Colorado Climate: A Game of Extremes

Owning a home in Colorado is a lesson in preparing for just about everything. The "Centennial State" throws a mixed bag at you, from heavy snows and hail in the winter to intense sun in the summer.

What I've learned is that your roof is your first line of defense. Those heavy snowfalls can lead to ice dams if you're not careful, and summer hailstorms are notorious for damaging shingles. It's crucial to have your roof inspected regularly. Another thing to keep an eye on is your foundation. The clay soil in many parts of Colorado expands and contracts with moisture, which can lead to cracks and other structural issues. And don't get me started on frozen pipes! Insulating your pipes, especially in crawl spaces and near exterior walls, is a must-do before the first frost.

The Arizona Sun: A Relentless Adversary

When I lived in Arizona, the big challenge wasn't the cold, but the relentless, baking sun. That beautiful desert landscape comes at a price, and your home's exterior often pays it.

The sheer intensity of the sun can cause paint to fade and wood to warp. It's a constant battle to keep the outside of your house from looking worn out. Inside, your air conditioning system is your home's hero, but it's working overtime in that heat. Regular maintenance is non-negotiable if you want to avoid a sweltering breakdown in the middle of July. And let's talk about the water. Due to the intense heat and cost of energy, many homeowners opt for different solutions in roofing. Tile roofing in Arizona is known for its immense durability and energy efficiency; locking cool air in much better than typical asphalt shingles. If you're interested in a residential roof inspection on your roof in Arizona, click here to be connected with our network of highly vetted roofing contractors in your area. Arizona is known for its hard water, which is chock-full of minerals that can wreak havoc on your plumbing fixtures and appliances.

Wyoming Winters: Preparing for the Big Chill

Life in Wyoming taught me the true meaning of "winter is coming." The key to happy homeownership here is preparation, preparation, preparation.

Before the snow flies, there's a checklist every Wyoming homeowner should tackle. Cleaning your gutters and downspouts is essential to prevent ice dams and water damage when all that snow melts. Your heating system is your best friend in the winter, so it's wise to have it serviced in the fall to make sure it's in good working order. And much like in Colorado, frozen pipes are a major concern. Insulating pipes is a weekend project that can save you a world of heartache and expense.

No matter where you live, understanding the local climate is the first step in protecting your home. A little preventative maintenance goes a long way in ensuring your house remains a safe and comfortable haven for years to come.