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Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

Medium 20 items · 1 hour
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testuser Published 2 days ago
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Prepare your home for freezing weather with this practical winter maintenance checklist. It’s aimed at homeowners and renters who want to prevent ice dams, burst pipes, and slippery walkways before cold snaps hit.

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  1. Clear gutters and downspouts — Remove leaves and debris; flush with water to ensure free flow.
  2. Inspect roof for damaged shingles and ice-dam risks — Look for loose/missing shingles, soft spots, and areas where ice may form.
  3. Inspect chimney and cap for blockages or damage — Check for nests, cracked crown, or missing cap; schedule repairs if needed.
  4. Trim overhanging branches near roof and driveway — Cut back limbs that could break under snow and damage roof or vehicles.
  5. Winterize outdoor taps and hoses — Disconnect hoses, shut off exterior valves, and drain fixtures to prevent freezing.
  6. Disconnect garden hoses — Store hoses indoors to prevent freeze damage and kinking.
  7. Shut off exterior faucet valves — Locate and close interior shut-off valves that feed outdoor taps.
  8. Drain and protect backflow preventers — Open and drain anti-siphon devices; store removable parts inside.
  9. Protect exposed pipes — Identify and insulate unheated pipes to prevent bursting when temperatures drop.
  10. Locate exposed pipes in crawlspaces and basements — Follow supply lines to find vulnerable sections near exterior walls.
  11. Apply foam lagging or heat tape to vulnerable pipes — Use appropriate foam insulation or thermostatic heat tape on exposed runs.
  12. Check loft/attic insulation and ventilation — Ensure insulation covers joists, seal gaps, and vents are unobstructed.
  13. Seal gaps around windows and doors — Replace weatherstripping and recaulk gaps to reduce drafts and heat loss.
  14. Inspect and repair garage door bottom seal — Replace torn rubber to keep cold air, snow, and pests out of the garage.
  15. Service heating system and replace filters — Change furnace/boiler filters and schedule service if not done this year.
  16. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries — Press test buttons and swap batteries annually for safety during heavy heating use.
  17. Bleed radiators and check thermostatic valves — Release trapped air until steady water flows; ensure valves open and close correctly.
  18. Stock ice melt, sand, and keep a shovel accessible — Buy supplies before freeze and store near exits for quick access during storms.
  19. Treat driveways and walkways for ice — Apply salt or traction mix before/after snowfall and shovel promptly to prevent slips.
  20. Test sump pump and battery backup — Pour water into the pit to ensure pump activates; check backup battery condition.
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