How do you fully winterize a house?

• <div><p>Complete house winterization goes above and beyond the list we created above. In addition to everything listed, full house winterization also includes:</p><ul><li><p>Performing a home energy audit.</p></li><li><p>Preparing your deck and patio for winter.</p></li><li><p>Learning <a href="https://www.angi.com/articles/how-to-start-snowblower.htm">how to start a snowblower</a>.</p></li><li><p>Replacing smoke detector batteries.</p></li><li><p>Installing outlet gaskets.</p></li><li><p>Installing storm doors. </p></li></ul><p></p></div>

Get matched with top chimney sweeps in Conrad, IA

Q: Should you remove icicles from your roof?

• <div><p>It can be dangerous to remove icicles from your roof, so the best option is to treat the underlying issue instead, usually by ensuring proper insulation in your home. If you&rsquo;re concerned about immediate damage, you can hire a professional to remove the icicles and the snow accumulation on your home to prevent the issue from recurring. Just make sure you use a long-term solution, too, like addressing insulation problems or installing roof heating coils on your roof.</p></div>

Q: What happens if you leave snow on your roof?

• <div><p>You may be wondering if you really need the snow removed from your roof. Since most roofs can only handle 20 pounds per square foot of snow accumulation, there is a tipping point when you are suddenly at risk of roof collapse. This can cause a lot of damage, not just to your home, but to your belongings, too. It also poses a physical danger to your family. Also, a lot of snow on a roof makes it more susceptible to ice dams, leaks, and water damage.</p></div>

Q: Do gable vents let water in?

• <div><p>Yes, gable vents can let water in. That being said, this usually only occurs during extreme conditions like heavy rainfall. You can prevent water from entering through gable vents by adding a screen that traps the water before it can enter.</p></div>

Q: Should I remove icicles from my roof?

• <div><p>In most cases, it&rsquo;s a good idea to leave the icicles on your roof and wait for the warmer weather to melt them away naturally. You should only remove icicles if you believe they&rsquo;re heavy enough to cause damage to your home or anyone who enters it.</p></div>

Enter your zip and get matched with up to 5 pros

Need a pro for your chimney sweeping project in Conrad, IA?

Select your specific project to find the pro for you.

Verified Reviews for Chimney Sweeping pros in Conrad, IA

*The Angi rating for Chimney Sweeping companies in Conrad, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Chimney Sweeping needs.

*The HomeAdvisor rating for Chimney Sweeping companies in Conrad, IA is a rating based on verified reviews from our community of homeowners who have used these pros to meet their Chimney Sweeping needs.

Last update on November 21, 2025

Reviewed in October 2014
They found some issues with the chimney and gave us an estimate for the repairs.
Mad Hatter Air Duct & Chimney Sweep Service of MO
Request a quote
Reviewed in August 2013
The guys who came to "sell" me the project were super friendly and helpful... until the contracts were signed. We were told it would be about 2 weeks until work would start (their website says that normal turnaround is 2 weeks as well). The contracts said 6-8 weeks, just to cover their butts....
Superior Exteriors
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2013
Partial tear down and rebuild of my chimney. There were bricks missing and my chimney cap had a big crack. The roof also leaked around the chimney because the caulking and flashing was pulled away. My chimney looks great and no leaks. Did a good job of matching new brick with old old brick.
Superior Masonry Company
Request a quote
Reviewed in June 2013
I was very happy with this provider. I purchased my old house 'as is' and the roof sounded like a drum in stormy weather. My roof leaked around the chimney, so I decided to just do the whole roof over. Now my ear drums can enjoy the patter of the rain and no more leaking around the chimney. My...
MOSSMAN ROOFING
Request a quote
Reviewed in April 2010
Was a good experience overall. Work began around 8:30 am and was finished around 3:30 pm. Workers were professional and laid sheeting so as not to track anything in the house. Quality of work seems very good. Previous furnace was 30 years old so it vented through the chimney, so they installed...
Gubbels One Hour Heating and Air Conditioning
Request a quote

Find Chimney sweeps in Conrad

No results for Chimney sweep in

Try adjusting your search criteria.

Chimney Sweep questions, answered by experts

It can be dangerous to remove icicles from your roof, so the best option is to treat the underlying issue instead, usually by ensuring proper insulation in your home. If you’re concerned about immediate damage, you can hire a professional to remove the icicles and the snow accumulation on your home to prevent the issue from recurring. Just make sure you use a long-term solution, too, like addressing insulation problems or installing roof heating coils on your roof.

You may be wondering if you really need the snow removed from your roof. Since most roofs can only handle 20 pounds per square foot of snow accumulation, there is a tipping point when you are suddenly at risk of roof collapse. This can cause a lot of damage, not just to your home, but to your belongings, too. It also poses a physical danger to your family. Also, a lot of snow on a roof makes it more susceptible to ice dams, leaks, and water damage.

Complete house winterization goes above and beyond the list we created above. In addition to everything listed, full house winterization also includes:

Performing a home energy audit.
Preparing your deck and patio for winter.
Learning how to start a snowblower.
Replacing smoke detector batteries.
Installing outlet gaskets.
Installing storm doors.

Yes, gable vents can let water in. That being said, this usually only occurs during extreme conditions like heavy rainfall. You can prevent water from entering through gable vents by adding a screen that traps the water before it can enter.

In most cases, it’s a good idea to leave the icicles on your roof and wait for the warmer weather to melt them away naturally. You should only remove icicles if you believe they’re heavy enough to cause damage to your home or anyone who enters it.

The Conrad, IA homeowners’ guide to chimney sweeping services

From average costs to expert advice, get all the answers you need to get your job done.

See all articles

Nick P. Cellucci
•
Nov 6, 2025Nov 6, 2025
How Much Does a Chimney Sweep Cost? [2025 Data]
Chimney sweep costs can be dramatically affected by the type of chimney, its location, and how dirty it is.
Gemma Johnstone
•
Sep 4, 2024Sep 4, 2024
How to Clean a Spark Arrestor on Your Chimney or Combustion Engine
Learn how to clean a spark arrestor on your chimney or combustion engine safely and effectively to prevent clogs or a buildup of fumes.
Becca Lewis
•
Aug 30, 2024Aug 30, 2024
How Often Do You Need to Clean Your Chimney?
Wondering how often to clean a chimney? Our guide will walk you through the recommended frequency, best time of year, and common signs your chimney’s due for a cleaning.
Kyle Schurman
•
Aug 10, 2025Aug 10, 2025
Vented vs. Ventless Gas Logs: Pros, Cons, and Costs
When comparing vented versus ventless gas logs, vented logs are better for ambiance, while ventless gas logs are easier to install and heat a room efficiently.
Chris Middleton
•
Nov 6, 2025Nov 6, 2025
How to Hire a Chimney Sweep
Your chimney sweep may not wear a top hat and dance on the ceiling, but they will keep your home safe by providing chimney inspections and cleanings. Follow these steps to learn how to hire a qualified and trusted chimney sweep in your town.
Haniya Rae
•
Nov 6, 2025Nov 6, 2025
How to Use Creosote Sweeping Logs to Keep Your Chimney Clean and Safe
Knowing how to use a creosote sweeping log for additional maintenance in between your annual chimney sweep can help keep your home safe from fires.