Chicago's climate, brick two-flats, garden units, and brutal freeze-thaw winters, decides what belongs on the seasonal list. Here is what actually matters.
Winter-Ready Checklist
- Service the furnace in fall, before the first freeze.
- Have gutters cleared to prevent ice dams.
- Shut off and drain exterior spigots.
- Seal drafts and check attic insulation to cut heating bills.
Do it in the right order
Start with anything safety-related (heating, electrical, roof), then moisture and drainage, then cosmetic. The goal is to catch small problems before the season turns them into expensive ones.
What to hand to a pro
Roof, HVAC, gas, and electrical. A seasonal tune-up in Chicago runs $95-$190, far less than the emergency it prevents.
Post your seasonal job free on Handiro and compare quotes from vetted Chicago pros.