Northern Minnesota is gearing up for another classic stretch of weather — forecasts are calling for 5–10 inches of snow between now and tomorrow night, with strong winds and rapidly dropping temperatures. For many homeowners, this is the time of year when your house starts to show just how well it handles winter.

At Ingenuity Builders, we see firsthand how cold snaps and early-season snow affect homes across the Iron Range. Here are a few simple things to watch for as the storm rolls in — and how you can keep your home safe, warm, and protected.

1. Pay Attention to Ice Dams

With heavy snowfall and fluctuating temperatures, ice dams can form quickly on older homes. Even a small ridge of ice can push melting snow back beneath your shingles, leading to hidden leaks, ceiling stains, and long-term damage.

Quick homeowner tip:
If you’re able, safely clear snow from the first few feet of your roofline using a roof rake. Keeping that area clean helps reduce buildup and improves melting patterns.

2. Check for Drafts and Cold Spots

As temperatures drop into the single digits, you might notice drafty corners, chilly rooms, or cold floors. These can be early signs of:

Under-insulated walls

Air leaks around windows and doors

Gaps in older siding

Poor attic ventilation

Small drafts now can turn into uncomfortable heating bills later in the season.

3. Inspect Your Windows and Doors

Winter weather is a great reminder to look for:

Frost buildup

Condensation between panes

Stiff locks or frozen entry doors

Cracked weatherstripping

Even newer windows can shift slightly as your home contracts in the cold, so a quick mid-season check can go a long way.

4. Ensure Snow Isn’t Pressing Against Your Siding

With 5–10 inches expected, snowdrifts can pile up quickly — especially on the north and west sides of homes. When snow leans against siding, moisture can creep in and cause long-term issues in the wall structure.

Take a minute to walk around your home after the snowfall and gently move snow away from your siding with a shovel or broom.

5. If Damage Happens, Don’t Panic

Winter can be tough on older houses, and sometimes surprise issues pop up — from ceiling stains to sagging drywall, roof leaks, or drafty windows.

The good news? Most cold-weather damage is repairable, even during winter. We work year-round throughout Hibbing and the surrounding areas to help homeowners keep their spaces warm and protected.

Winter in Hibbing Doesn’t Wait — and We Don’t Either

Whether it's preparing for a major snowfall or repairing something that winter revealed, our team at Ingenuity Builders is here to help Northern Minnesota homes stay safe, functional, and comfortable all season long.

Stay warm, drive safe, and enjoy the beauty of the first big snowfall — from the team at Ingenuity Builders.