Winter Home Maintenance Tips to Start This Month
As the winter season begins, homeowners should take proactive steps to prepare their homes for the challenges of colder weather. Whether you’re planning to stay cozy indoors or leave your home unoccupied for an extended period, these maintenance tips will help protect your property, keep it in top condition, and ensure your insurance coverage remains intact.
1. Seal Up Drafts
Check for drafts around windows, doors, and other openings. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal any gaps, keeping the warm air inside and lowering heating costs. Draft blockers for doors can be a quick and effective solution.
2. Inspect Your Heating System
Ensure your heating system is ready for the season by scheduling a professional tune-up, replacing air filters, and testing your thermostat. A well-maintained system will keep your home warm and operate efficiently, saving you money in the long run.
3. Protect Pipes from Freezing
Frozen pipes can cause significant damage. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces, and disconnect outdoor hoses. If you’re leaving home for an extended period, consider shutting off the water supply or having a plumber winterize your system.
4. Prepare Your Roof and Gutters
Clear gutters of leaves and debris to prevent ice dams, which can cause water to back up and damage your roof. Inspect for loose or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks when snow and ice accumulate.
5. Stock Up on Winter Essentials
Prepare for snowstorms and icy conditions by having salt or sand for walkways, a sturdy snow shovel, and an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food. If you own a generator, test it to ensure it’s working correctly.
6. Reverse Ceiling Fans
Switch ceiling fans to spin clockwise on a low setting. This helps push warm air near the ceiling down into your living spaces, improving comfort and reducing heating costs.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With heating systems and fireplaces in use, the risk of carbon monoxide exposure increases in winter. Test all detectors and replace batteries to ensure your family’s safety.
6. Regular Property Inspections for Vacant Homes
If you plan to leave your home unoccupied for an extended period, it’s essential to understand your home insurance policy’s requirements for vacant properties. Many insurers mandate that:
- Someone checks the property every few days.
- Preventative measures, such as shutting off water or using a security system, are taken.
- Adjustments to your policy are made for extended absences, such as adding a “vacant home endorsement.”
Failing to meet these requirements can void your coverage, leaving you at risk for damages. Arrange for a trusted friend, neighbor, or property management service to perform regular inspections and document them to protect your investment and your peace of mind.
Taking care of your home this winter not only protects your investment but also provides peace of mind. Whether you’re staying put or leaving your property vacant, these tips will help you avoid costly repairs and keep your home comfortable and secure.
Have questions about maintaining or protecting your home? Need recommendations for local service providers? Contact me today—I’m here to help.