5 Fall Maintenance Tips To Prepare Your Home for Winter

By Chip Hodgkins

The Hodgkins Homes Team specializes in Residential Real Estate Selling and Buying, mortgage, title, development, new construction and remodeling.

Have you started preparing your home for winter? If you’re thinking of putting it off, you might be making one huge and expensive mistake. Every year, homeowners in Central New York find themselves dealing with roof leaks, frozen pipes, and damage they could have prevented with a little preparation. The key is to start preparing as early as fall, rather than waiting for the cold months to arrive.

Here are five essential steps that will help you avoid major repairs and keep your home warm and damage-free:

1. Clean your gutters and check drainage. Leaves and debris can quickly build up in your gutters, especially in CNY, which can cause water overflow, ice dams, and even foundation issues. Cleaning your gutters is one of the easiest and most effective ways to prevent damage. Make sure your downspouts are directing water away from your home to avoid unwanted water buildup.

2. Schedule a furnace inspection. During winter, temperatures can go from mild to freezing overnight. To avoid an unexpected furnace breakdown, schedule an inspection and tune-up before the cold hits. A well-maintained furnace will run more efficiently, lower your energy bills, and prevent costly repairs during the winter months.

3. Seal gaps. Small gaps around your windows and doors can lead to significant heat loss, which means higher heating bills. Use weatherstripping to seal these leaks and make your home more energy-efficient. While you’re at it, check your attic insulation for any gaps to prevent heat from escaping.

4. Trim trees and inspect your roof. Heavy rain and snow can cause weakened branches to break off, damaging your roof, gutters, and even your vehicle. Now is the perfect time to trim overhanging limbs and inspect your roof for any missing shingles or signs of wear. Getting this done early can help you avoid major repairs later in the season.

5. Seal outdoor faucets and hoses. Frozen pipes are a real concern during winter. To prevent damage, drain and disconnect garden hoses, shut off exterior faucets, and use faucet covers to protect against burst pipes. A little effort now can save you from expensive repairs later.

Taking these simple steps now can help you avoid major damage and unnecessary expenses come winter. If you need local referrals for roofers, HVAC pros, or gutter cleaners, I’ve got a trusted list ready for you. Contact me at 315-449-6697 or email me at info@hodgkinshomes.com, and I’ll help you get your home ready for the cold season.