As the cold weather rolls in, it’s the perfect time to give your home a quick seasonal tune-up. A few simple steps now can save you from headaches and big repair bills later, and keep things warm and comfortable all winter long. And if anything pops up during the season, reach out, I’m always happy to point you in the right direction.
Exterior
Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice-dams and roof leaks.
Inspect the roof, chimney, flashing, and vents for any damage.
Shut off and drain exterior faucets and hoses so they don’t freeze.
Store patio furniture, cushions, and décor.
Stock up on ice-melt or sand for walkways.
Energy Efficiency
Seal windows and doors with weather-stripping or caulking to stop heat loss.
Check attic insulation and ventilation to avoid moisture issues.
Close foundation vents (if applicable).
Heating & Safety
Replace furnace filters.
Schedule a heating-system inspection or tune-up.
Test smoke and carbon-monoxide detectors.
Clean or service fireplaces, wood stoves, or heat pumps.
Outdoor Maintenance
Trim back branches that could break under snow and hit the house.
Check snowblower: fuel, spark plug, belt, and test-run it.
Get shovels and driveway markers ready.
Indoor Prep
Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air downward.
Create an emergency kit: flashlights, batteries, candles, matches, blankets.
Confirm your winter contact list: plumber, HVAC tech, electrician.
Make sure generator is in good working order and you have plenty of fuel.