Winter Home Care: How to Protect Your Home During the Cold Months

By December, winter has already settled in with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. While the time for pre-winter prep has passed, there’s still plenty you can do to keep your home safe, efficient, and comfortable throughout the season. Here’s what homeowners should focus on now:

1. Keep Your Roof and Gutters in Check

Snow and ice can wreak havoc on your roof and drainage system:

• Watch for Ice Dams:
  If you notice icicles forming along your roofline, it could indicate an ice dam. These can cause water to back up under shingles and leak into your home. Use a roof rake to gently remove excess snow from the edges.

• Clear Gutters When Possible:
  If temperatures rise above freezing, check gutters for blockages. Proper drainage prevents water damage when snow melts.

2. Prevent Frozen Pipes

Even in mid-winter, frozen pipes remain a major risk:

• Keep Interior Warm:
  Maintain a consistent indoor temperature, even in unused rooms. Avoid turning the thermostat too low at night.

• Open Cabinet Doors:
  In kitchens and bathrooms, open cabinets to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.

• Drip Faucets During Extreme Cold:
  A slow drip keeps water moving and reduces freezing risk.

3. Manage Snow and Ice Around Your Property

Snow accumulation and icy surfaces can lead to damage and accidents:

• Shovel Regularly:
  Clear walkways and driveways promptly to prevent ice buildup. Use salt or sand for traction.

• Check for Overloaded Roofs:
  Heavy snow can strain your roof. If safe, use a roof rake to remove excess weight.

• Trim Hazardous Branches:
  Snow-laden branches can snap and damage your home or power lines. Remove any that look stressed.

4. Indoor Comfort and Safety

Cold weather affects your home’s interior too:

• Monitor Humidity:
  Dry air can damage wood floors and furniture. Use a humidifier to maintain 30–50% humidity.

• Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors:
  Heating systems and fireplaces increase CO risk. Ensure detectors are working properly.

• Reverse Ceiling Fans:
  Set fans to rotate clockwise to push warm air down and improve heating efficiency.

5. Stay Ready for Winter Emergencies

Storms and power outages are common in mid-winter:

• Stock Essentials:
  Keep blankets, flashlights, batteries, and non-perishable food handy.

• Backup Heat Source:
  If possible, have a generator or wood stove ready for emergencies.

• Know Shut-Offs:
  Familiarize yourself with water and gas shut-off valves in case of a burst pipe or other emergency.

6. Protect Your Investment

Ongoing winter care isn’t just about comfort—it preserves your home’s value:

• Avoid Structural Damage:
  Ice dams, leaks, and frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs.

• Improve Energy Efficiency:
  Sealing drafts and maintaining systems reduces heating costs.

• Enhance Safety:
  Proper maintenance prevents accidents and liability issues.

Final Thoughts

Winter isn’t over yet, and staying vigilant now can save you thousands in repairs later. Regular checks and small actions go a long way toward protecting your home and keeping your family safe.