Whether you own a home or manage rental properties, a little winter prep could keep your property safe and comfortable throughout the season. Below, we break down ten essential ways to winterize your property and minimize the impact of harsh weather conditions.
1. Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Your roof is your property’s first line of defense against rain, snow, and ice. Before winter arrives, thoroughly inspect it for signs of wear and tear, such as cracked shingles, missing tiles, or exposed nails. Addressing minor repairs early could prevent more significant issues like leaks or ice dams, which might form when snow melts unevenly.
Gutters also play a critical role in protecting your home’s foundation. Blocked gutters can cause water to pool and freeze, potentially leading to cracks in walls or leaking basements. Clean out leaves, twigs, and other debris to allow water to drain properly. If your area experiences frequent snowstorms, consider adding gutter guards to prevent future clogs. Regular roof and gutter maintenance can mitigate water damage, saving you from costly repairs down the road.
2. Check for Air Leaks
Drafts can make your home feel colder than it is, causing your heating system to work overtime and driving up energy bills. Sealing air leaks is an inexpensive way to improve energy efficiency and maintain indoor comfort. Walk around your property and identify gaps around windows, doors, and vents. Use weatherstripping for doorframes and apply caulk around window edges to reduce air leakage. For an added layer of insulation, apply plastic window film to the interior of windows, especially in older homes.
Don’t forget to inspect attic spaces, basements, and crawlspaces, as these areas are often overlooked and can allow cold air to enter. If necessary, install door sweeps along the bottom of exterior doors to block drafts. While these measures may not entirely eliminate heat loss, they could reduce it significantly, helping your heating system work more efficiently.
3. Maintain Heating Systems
A well-maintained heating system is essential for surviving winter comfortably. Have your furnace or boiler inspected and serviced by a professional before the cold sets in. Technicians can identify any worn-out components and make necessary repairs, reducing the likelihood of a breakdown during peak season. Change or clean air filters regularly to ensure optimal airflow, which may help the system run more efficiently.
For homes with fireplaces or wood stoves, it’s equally important to schedule a chimney cleaning to remove creosote buildup, which can become a fire hazard. Test your thermostat to ensure it accurately reflects indoor temperatures, and consider upgrading to a smart thermostat for better energy management. Proactive maintenance now could help extend the lifespan of your heating system and keep energy costs in check throughout the season.
4. Prepare Pipes for Freezing Temperatures
Frozen pipes are among the most common winter-related issues, and they can lead to severe water damage if they burst. Insulate pipes located in unheated spaces, such as garages, attics, or exterior walls, using foam pipe sleeves or heat tape. These inexpensive materials could provide a layer of protection against freezing.
Set your thermostat to maintain a consistent temperature, even at night, to prevent sudden drops that could freeze the pipes. In extremely cold weather, let faucets drip slowly to keep water flowing, which may help prevent ice from forming inside pipes. Additionally, disconnect garden hoses and shut off outdoor faucets to avoid ice buildup in exterior plumbing.
5. Stock Up on Essential Supplies
Winter storms can be unpredictable, so having the right supplies on hand is key to staying safe and comfortable. Stock up on ice melt or salt for walkways, as well as sand for added traction on icy surfaces. Make sure your snow shovels and snow blowers are in good working order, and consider having extra fuel stored safely if you use gas-powered tools.
In case of power outages, prepare an emergency kit with flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and non-perishable food. Blankets and portable phone chargers are also essential items. If you live in an area prone to heavy snow or freezing rain, keep an emergency car kit as well, including jumper cables, extra clothing, and flares.
6. Trim Trees and Secure Outdoor Furniture
Winter storms can weigh down tree branches, making them more likely to snap and damage property. Trim back overhanging limbs near your home, power lines, or parked cars to reduce the risk of breakage. If large branches are too high to handle yourself, consider hiring a professional tree service.
Additionally, secure or store outdoor furniture, grills, and seasonal decorations. Strong winter winds can displace these items, causing damage to both your belongings and your home. Cover patio furniture with weather-resistant tarps or store them in sheds or garages until spring arrives.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As temperatures drop, people rely more on heating appliances, fireplaces, and space heaters—making the risk of fire and carbon monoxide exposure higher. Check all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors throughout your property to ensure they are functioning correctly. Replace batteries, and if your detectors are more than ten years old, consider upgrading to newer models.
Install carbon monoxide detectors near sleeping areas and fuel-burning appliances for added protection. Educating your household or tenants about the dangers of carbon monoxide poisoning can also help everyone stay vigilant. A small investment in safety now could offer peace of mind all winter long.
8. Inspect Walkways and Driveways
Cracked walkways and driveways become more hazardous during winter, as water can seep into cracks, freeze, and expand, causing further deterioration. Seal any noticeable gaps with concrete filler or patch kits before winter begins. This preventative step may reduce the risk of slips and falls, while also helping extend the life of your paved surfaces.
During winter, keep sidewalks, steps, and driveways clear of snow and ice. Spread salt or sand on slippery surfaces to improve traction. If your area experiences frequent snowfalls, it may be worth investing in a snow removal service to keep paths accessible.
9. Ensure Proper Ventilation
While sealing air leaks is essential, it’s equally important to maintain healthy ventilation. Poor ventilation can lead to excess moisture buildup, encouraging mold growth, condensation, and even structural damage over time. Be sure to run exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms regularly, and open windows for short periods on mild days to promote air circulation.
Inspect attics and basements for signs of mold, mildew, or musty odors, which may indicate poor ventilation. Adding vents or dehumidifiers in problem areas could help maintain balanced humidity levels. Maintaining good air quality is especially important during winter when windows tend to stay closed for long periods.
10. Review Your Insurance Coverage
Even with thorough preparation, winter-related issues can arise unexpectedly. Reviewing your insurance policies can ensure you’re adequately covered in case of damage from frozen pipes, roof leaks, or fallen trees. Check the terms of your policy for exclusions or limitations on winter damage, and consider adding extra coverage if necessary.
It may also be a good time to update your policy if you’ve made recent home improvements, such as replacing the roof or upgrading insulation. Knowing what is covered can provide peace of mind and make the claims process smoother if anything goes wrong during the season.
Get Ahead of Winter’
Winter can bring unique challenges, but with the right preparation, you could reduce the risk of costly repairs and inconveniences. Taking proactive steps—such as sealing air leaks, maintaining heating systems, and stocking up on essential supplies—can help keep your property safe and comfortable during the colder months. While these efforts can’t guarantee your property will be trouble-free, they may provide a greater sense of security and peace of mind as you face winter’s unpredictable weather.
