Winter is here – that means it’s time to prep your home! A few small checks now can make all the difference once the colder days really set in. With years in real estate here in The Woodlands, Texas, Christine Richards has seen how a little seasonal upkeep goes a long way. Here are a few winter home maintenance tips to get your home ready for the season!
Inspect Your Heating System
This time of year, a dependable heating system is truly a must. To avoid any unexpected breakdowns now is a great moment to schedule a professional inspection. A little maintenance goes a long way—replacing air filters and checking vents will ensure everything is clean and working smoothly, giving you peace of mind that your home will stay cozy and warm throughout the winter.
Clean and Inspect Gutters
With winter on the horizon in The Woodlands, it’s easy for gutters to become clogged due to shifting weather. Leaves, dirt, and debris tend to accumulate, especially if it’s been a while since the last cleaning. December is an ideal time to have your gutters cleaned thoroughly – and while you’re at it, think about getting a professional inspection.
Check Weatherstripping and Insulation
If there are visible (or invisible) gaps around your windows or doors, you’ll want to catch and fix them before winter! These gaps in weatherstripping can easily be filled to keep your home draft-free and warm all season. Another winter home maintenance tip is to ensure places like your attic are properly insulated for the upcoming season. Keep the cold outside!
Clear Dead Branches
Winter storms and high winds can turn dead branches into dangerous projectiles, posing a risk not only to your home but also to neighboring properties and vehicles. To reduce this risk, winter is the time to trim those overgrown trees you’ve been putting off pruning. Picking up dead branches is another simple, yet often overlooked, way to weatherize your Woodlands property this winter.
Protect Outdoor Pipes
As mentioned previously, most Texas winters are generally mild. You can never be too wary of a sudden freeze, however, and this winter home maintenance tip will help prevent panic in the midst of the season. Drain garden hoses, shut off outdoor faucets, and insulate any exposed outdoor piping to lessen the risk of bursting and freezing.
Check Your Roof and Siding
Taking care of your roof and siding is a smart way to dodge high repair bills and protect your home from damage. Missing shingles, leaks, or exposed spots can let water seep in, causing harm that could be costly to fix. As winter approaches, it’s worth scheduling a professional inspection to spot any issues early. Plus, this will keep your home energy efficient!
Whether you’re happy in your forever home or thinking of selling and buying new next year, a bit of upkeep now goes a long way. These small winter home maintenance tips keep your home comfortable, safe, and in great shape! Once you’re done, you can relax and enjoy the holiday season, knowing your home’s taken care of.
Book your appointment today with Christine Richards to find your dream home right here in The Woodlands area.