
Winter Maintenance Tips: Keep Your Home Cozy and Market-Ready
Winter is here, and it’s time to make sure your home stays warm, efficient, and well-maintained. Whether you’re planning to sell soon or simply want to protect your investment, following a winter maintenance routine can save you from costly repairs and keep your home cozy all season long. High Falls | Sotheby’s International Realty is here to help you every step of the way. Here’s a checklist to help you stay on top of winter upkeep:
Seal Drafts
Drafty windows and doors not only let the cold in but can also drive up your heating costs. Take these steps to keep the chill out:
- Inspect windows and doors for air leaks.
- Replace or add weather stripping and caulking as needed.
- Use draft stoppers for additional protection.
Check Your Heating System
Your heating system works hard during the winter months, so keeping it in top shape is essential:
- Schedule a professional HVAC inspection to ensure your heating system is running efficiently.
- Replace furnace filters regularly to maintain airflow and indoor air quality.
- Clean vents and make sure they’re not obstructed by furniture or rugs.
Prevent Ice Dams
Ice dams can cause serious damage to your roof and home. Take these steps to prevent them:
- Inspect your roof for damage or missing shingles before heavy snowfall.
- Clear gutters and downspouts to allow proper drainage.
- Add insulation to your attic to prevent heat from escaping and melting snow unevenly on your roof.
Protect Pipes from Freezing
Frozen pipes are a common winter hazard, but you can avoid them with a little preparation:
- Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements or crawl spaces.
- During extreme cold, let faucets drip to keep water flowing.
- Know the location of your main water shutoff valve in case of a burst pipe emergency.
Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney
If you enjoy the warmth of a fireplace during winter, make sure it’s safe to use:
- Clean out ashes and debris if you have a wood-burning fireplace.
- Schedule a chimney sweep if you haven’t done so recently.
- Check for cracks or creosote buildup, which can pose a fire hazard.
Prepare for Snow and Ice
Snow and ice can create safety hazards around your home. Be ready with these tips:
- Stock up on ice melt, sand, or kitty litter for walkways.
- Keep shovels or a snowblower in good working condition and within easy reach.
- Trim tree branches near your home that could break under the weight of snow or ice.
Test Safety Devices
Winter often means spending more time indoors, making safety devices more critical than ever:
- Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Test all alarms to ensure they’re functioning properly.
- Confirm your fire extinguisher is accessible and in good condition.
Boost Curb Appeal
Even in winter, curb appeal matters—especially if you’re selling your home:
- Clear snow and ice from walkways and driveways to make your home accessible and safe.
- Ensure outdoor lighting is functional to brighten dark evenings.
Selling This Winter?
Buyers want a warm and well-maintained home, even in the colder months. Tackling these winter maintenance tasks shows pride of ownership and can make your property stand out in the market. Thinking about selling your home? High Falls | Sotheby’s International Realty would love to help! Let’s work together to ensure your property is winter-ready and irresistible to buyers. Contact me for a personalized consultation and discover how we can maximize your home’s winter appeal!