Few things put properties to the test like extreme temperatures; wintertime and cold weather can be specialty brutal. Consider that winter weather caused $1 billion in insured losses in 2016, according to Munich Re and Consumer Reports. That figured jumped to $15 billion in 2021 (when Texas experienced its now infamous power grid failure and subsequent freezing catastrophe), according to Aon and I.I.I. Wind and hail damage have an impact, with 34% of wintertime homeowner losses attributed to these factors in 2019, the I.I.I. says. But water and ice-related damage can be especially costly to a home, which is why late fall is the perfect time to begin preparing a property for the cold in order to protect against more expensive chores or repairs later on. Winterizing properties also can help thwart insurance claims, according to The Hanover. Early action is the best defense against unexpected wintertime homeowner expenses and headaches. "Identify potential problems early, prepare your home and property, and reduce the chance of an insurance claim in the future," The Hanover advises. The slideshow above illustrates a dozen home winterization tips from The Hanover. See also:

• Get ahead of winter weather with fall maintenance
• 6 ways to get your home ready for winter
• Here's your winter storm reality check: Are you prepared?