Winter Home Maintenance Tips

Winter weather isn’t just tough on morale—it can also take a serious toll on your home. From freezing temperatures and extra moisture to the strain on essential systems and materials, the season comes with its fair share of challenges. 

With regular maintenance, however, you can protect your home from winter’s harsh effects, keeping your space warm and inviting while also preventing costly repairs down the road.

Consider working through the following checklist as temperatures start to drop:  

Check Your Furnace: Possibly the most important item on the list is ensuring your furnace is in good shape before temperatures plummet. During the winter months, it’ll be working overtime to keep your home comfortable, and the last thing you want is for it to break down when it’s sub-zero outside. By scheduling a professional inspection early, you can give yourself peace of mind knowing your heating system is ready to handle the season ahead. 

Trim Trees and Branches: Winter storms can damage trees on your property, so be sure to remove dead branches near your home that could snap under the weight of snow or ice. When trimming trees, make sure to keep branches trimmed away from powerlines and the roof. 

Inspect the Roof: Winter brings snow, ice, and rain, which can seep into your home if your roof has damaged shingles, cracks, or weak spots. Giving your roof a once-over and addressing these issues before the cold season helps avoid costly water damage and keeps your home energy efficient.   

Inspect Your Chimney and Fireplace: Before winter sets in, take the time to ensure your fireplace is safe and ready for those cozy nights by the fire. Schedule a professional chimney inspection and cleaning to remove any soot, debris, or creosote buildup that could pose a fire hazard. 

For wood-burning fireplaces, stock up on properly seasoned firewood to ensure a steady supply. If you have a gas fireplace, check that the pilot light is functioning properly and inspect the connections for any potential issues. 

Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: The risk of fire and carbon monoxide (CO) exposure increases significantly during the winter months. With doors and windows sealed tight to keep out the cold, fresh air flow is minimized, creating the potential for dangerous CO buildup. At the same time, the use of heating devices, candles, and holiday lights adds to the risk of fire.Ensure your smoke and CO alarms are in working order to keep your home safe—test them regularly, check batteries, and address any issues promptly for peace of mind all season long. 

By taking the time to prepare your home for winter, you can avoid common seasonal pitfalls and enjoy a safe, comfortable space all season long. A little maintenance now can save you from costly repairs and keep your home running smoothly through the colder months. 

10 Home Maintenance Tips: When to DIY and When to Call a Pro  

Maintaining your home is a crucial aspect of homeownership, but knowing when to tackle a project yourself and when to hire a professional can save you time, money, and potential headaches. Here’s a guide to help you navigate DIY tasks and those best left to the experts.  

  1. Hanging Wallpaper: Hire a Pro  
    Hanging wallpaper requires precision to keep it straight and lined up. Avoid potential mishaps and extra expenses by entrusting this task to a professional.  
     
  1. Tile a Backsplash: DIY 
    With proper preparation and attention to detail, you can enhance your kitchen or bathroom without the need for professional assistance. Ensure you have the right tools, adhesive, and tiles, and follow step-by-step guides to achieve a polished and personalized backsplash. If you encounter challenges or prefer a complex design, consulting with a professional tiler may be beneficial. 
     
  1. Painting the Exterior: Hire a Pro  
    The scale of painting your home’s exterior, involving tall ladders and sometimes roofs, calls for professional expertise and safety considerations. 
      
  1. Fixing a Clogged Garbage Disposal: DIY  
    Use a small specialty wrench to clear the clog in the disposal, a manageable task for most homeowners.  
     
  1. Sealing Windows and Doors: DIY  
    Reduce your heating and air conditioning bills by sealing drafty windows and doors. Start by removing the old caulk and cleaning the area. Apply a thin line, run a gloved finger over to smooth, and let dry.  
     
  1. Installing a Light Fixture: Hire a Pro (Probably)  
    While low-voltage projects can be DIY, electrical work above 50 volts is best left to professionals to avoid safety risks.  
     
  1. Patching a Hole in Drywall: DIY  
    Small holes are manageable with spackle and primer, but larger holes may require professional attention.  
     
  1. Cleaning Gutters: Try to DIY (If Comfortable on a Ladder)  
    Regular gutter cleaning is essential; if you’re comfortable on a ladder, this is a task you can handle. Otherwise, hire a professional for safety.  
     
  1. Re-grouting Tile: Try to DIY  
    Choose the right grout, clean the area, and follow manufacturer instructions for a successful tile re-grouting project.  
     
  1. Installing Molding: Hire a Pro  
    Precision is key in installing molding, and unless you have experience and the necessary tools, it’s best to hire a professional.  
     
  1. Fixing a Sticking Window: Hire a Pro  
    Various issues can cause a window to stick and fixing it may involve tools and skills best left to professionals. Avoid potential damage by seeking expert help.  

Other great DIY projects include: 

  • – Replacing faucets 
  • – Painting doors 
  • – Building shelves 
  • – Framing mirrors 
  • – Lining cabinet drawers 

Knowing your limits and understanding the complexity of each task will ensure your home maintenance efforts are both effective and efficient.