Last-Minute Home Prep Before the Snow Falls: A Checklist for Homeowners

As the days grow shorter and temperatures drop, now’s the time to ensure your home is ready for winter. Taking care of these last-minute tasks before the snow flies will help prevent costly repairs, keep your home cozy, and give you peace of mind during the colder months. Here’s a quick checklist to get you started.

1. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

Leaves, dirt, and debris can clog your gutters, causing water to overflow and potentially damage your home’s foundation. Clean out your gutters to ensure proper drainage, preventing ice dams from forming on your roof as temperatures fluctuate. A quick once-over now can save a lot of trouble in the winter.

2. Check and Seal Windows and Doors

Drafts around windows and doors can lead to heat loss, increasing your energy bills. Walk around your home to check for any cracks, gaps, or areas where the cold might seep in. Apply weather stripping or caulk to seal up any openings and keep your home warmer.

3. Drain and Store Outdoor Hoses

Leaving hoses attached during freezing weather can lead to burst pipes. Disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses, then store them away for the season. Also, turn off exterior water lines or close the shut-off valves if your system has them to prevent freeze damage.

4. Trim Trees and Branches Near the House

Overhanging branches can become weighed down with snow and ice, increasing the risk of breakage. Trim back any trees or branches that are close to your roof, power lines, or windows. This precaution helps prevent damage from falling limbs during winter storms.

5. Service Your Heating System

It’s essential to make sure your heating system is in top condition before you rely on it full-time. Schedule a maintenance check for your furnace, boiler, or heat pump to catch any issues before they turn into costly breakdowns. This also helps your system run more efficiently and keeps your home warm throughout the winter.

6. Check Your Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With increased use of heaters, fireplaces, and other heat sources in the winter, the risk of fire and carbon monoxide buildup also rises. Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home and replace batteries if necessary. A few minutes of prevention could save lives.

7. Stock Up on Winter Supplies

It’s always good to be prepared. Stock up on essentials like ice melt, snow shovels, and sand or kitty litter for traction on icy walkways. Check your snowblower if you have one, and make sure it’s in working order before the first snowfall. Having supplies on hand now can save you a trip to the store in bad weather.

8. Bring in or Cover Outdoor Furniture

Winter weather can take a toll on outdoor furniture, grills, and garden tools. Bring these items indoors or cover them securely to protect them from the elements. If you have planters or pots that could crack in freezing temperatures, consider bringing those in as well.

9. Inspect and Insulate Your Pipes

Pipes that run along exterior walls or through unheated spaces are at risk of freezing and bursting. Check that all visible pipes are insulated, especially in crawl spaces, garages, and basements. Insulation sleeves are affordable and can prevent costly repairs down the line.

10. Clean and Inspect Your Fireplace and Chimney

If you have a wood-burning fireplace, it’s important to have the chimney cleaned and inspected annually to prevent creosote buildup, which can lead to fires. Make sure your flue works properly, and keep a stock of dry firewood ready if you plan to use your fireplace this winter.

Get Ready to Enjoy a Cozy Winter

By taking care of these last-minute tasks, you’re setting yourself up for a more comfortable, worry-free winter. From simple checks to essential maintenance, each step goes a long way in protecting your home and saving on energy costs. So, take a weekend to get these done, and relax knowing your home is ready to handle whatever winter brings!