Winter is a beautiful season, but it can be tough on your home. The freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can cause serious damage if you don’t plan ahead. Prevent costly home repairs and surprises with our free winter home maintenance checklist!
While it’s never easy to predict the weather, there are some things homeowners can do to stay one step ahead of Mother Nature. With over a decade of experience in home repairs, we consider ourselves experts when it comes to preventing costly problems in the winter! To help, we’ve created this online guide with the most important home maintenance tasks to safeguard your roof, siding, windows, gutters, and your entire home this season. Follow these steps to ensure your home remains a warm and safe haven during the winter months!
1. Roof Inspection And Winter Home Maintenance
Your roof is your first line of defense against the elements, and it needs special attention in winter. The single best thing you can do is get a professional roof inspection to spot any potential warning signs as early as possible. This is because your home’s roof is directly connected to your gutters, siding, and other areas of your home’s exterior. If your roof fails, often those problems get transferred to another area as well. This can exponentially increase repair costs in the winter.
It’s important to note that climbing and walking on your roof can be dangerous, especially in the winter when surfaces are prone to ice over. With that said, here are a few things homeowners can do safely from the ground of their home:
Inspect Shingles: Check for missing or damaged shingles. If you notice any areas of your roof looking funny, like raised or bumpy areas, it’s also a sign you need to call a professional roofing company ASAP. Make sure any missing or cracked shingles are repaired or replaced before winter sets in.
Trim Overhanging Branches: Overhanging tree branches can damage your roof during storms. Keep trees and landscaping at least 6 feet away from your roof and siding.
Attic Inspection: Ensure proper insulation and ventilation in your attic to prevent ice dams and heat loss. How much attic insulation is enough? It can depend on the type of insulation material you have. Calling a professional roofer can help you determine if you need more or if your home is ready for freezing temperatures.
2. Siding Care
Maintaining your home siding is essential for the overall protection of your home’s exterior. Even small cracks or holes can let warm air escape from your home, meaning a less comfortable living space all winter. Plus, it can increase heating costs! That’s why after inspecting your roof, the next winter home maintenance task is walking around your home to check your siding. Here’s what to look for:
Clean and Inspect: Give your siding a good cleaning to remove dirt and debris. Inspect for cracks and loose panels.
Seal Cracks: Use caulk or weather-resistant sealant to fill any gaps or cracks.
Repaint or Stain: If your siding is wood, consider repainting or re-staining for added protection.
3. Window and Door Maintenance
Drafty home windows and doors can significantly affect your home’s energy efficiency, especially in the winter. The good news is that you can easily prevent problems and save money in just a few steps. Here’s what to do to cross windows off your winter home maintenance checklist:
Check for Drafts: Seal any gaps or drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk.
Install Storm Windows: Consider adding storm windows for extra insulation.
Clean and Lubricate: Clean window tracks and lubricate hinges and locks to ensure they function correctly.
4. Gutter Cleaning
Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home’s foundation and preventing water damage. They are also one of the biggest causes of winter home repairs. This is because gutters can get easily clogged with falling leaves and debris and then freeze up and prevent water from shedding off your roof. While we understand checking and cleaning home gutters is the last thing people want to do in the fall, it’s a critical piece of winter home maintenance. Here’s what to do:
Remove Debris: Clear out leaves, twigs, and other debris to prevent clogs.
Check for Damage: Inspect the gutters for damage, such as cracks or loose connections.
Install Gutter Guards: Consider installing gutter guards to prevent future debris buildup.
5. HVAC System Maintenance
Your heating system is essential during winter, so don’t forget to maintain it. Without proper winter home maintenance, your furnace can be forced to work overtime which can lead to skyrocketing energy costs.
Change Filters: Regularly replace HVAC filters to improve air quality and energy efficiency.
Schedule Professional Service: Arrange for an HVAC technician to inspect and service your heating system.
Install Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Any gas heater has the potential to leak carbon monoxide into the indoor living area. This odorless gas can cause serious and even deadly problems. Installing a home carbon monoxide detector is a no-brainer! If you already have them in your home, winter is a great time to replace the batteries and ensure the alarm works properly.
6. Prepare for Snow and Ice
After completing the winter home maintenance tasks in steps 1-5, your home may be ready for excess snow and ice, but what about you and your family members? Storms and slick roads can make it difficult to access supplies and it’s always better to be prepared for any emergency. Here’s how to stay ready for whatever Mother Nature throws your way:
Stock Up: Ensure you have water, food, and an emergency supply kit on hand.
Insulate Pipes: Prevent frozen pipes by insulating them or letting faucets drip during freezing temperatures.
Turn Off Sprinkler Systems: This will help prevent frozen pipes and other issues.
Have A Backup Heating System: Whether it’s a generator or homemade heating hack like those seen on TikTok, have a plan for how you can keep yourself and your family warm should the electricity fail.
Key Takeaways About Winter Home Maintenance
Winter home maintenance is not only about comfort but also about protecting your investment. By following these essential tips, you can keep your roof, siding, windows, gutters, and your entire home in top shape throughout the winter months. Don’t wait until the first snowfall to start your preparations; proactive maintenance is the key to preventing costly repairs. If you have any questions or need professional assistance, our roofing company is here to help you ensure your home’s safety and comfort this winter. Stay warm and stay safe!
