11/11/25

Home Design

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist: How to Keep Your Home Cozy, Warm, and Protected

Wisconsin winter is beautiful, but it’s also tough on your home. From freezing temperatures to snow and ice, the season brings plenty of potential challenges. The good news? A little preparation now can save you big headaches and costly repairs later. Whether you’re a first-time homeowner, seasoned property investor, or just trying to keep your home comfortable all winter, this guide will walk you through the essential steps to protect your investment and enjoy a worry-free winter season.

Service Your Heating System

Your heating system is your home’s lifeline during winter, so keeping it in top shape is crucial. Schedule a professional inspection for your furnace, boiler, or heat pump to ensure it’s running efficiently. Swap out air filters regularly to ensure your system doesn’t have to work overtime. If you have a fireplace, don’t skip the chimney cleaning. A well-maintained fireplace not only warms your home but also keeps your family safe. And while you’re at it, check smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors—it’s a small step that provides huge peace of mind.

Prevent Frozen Pipes

Frozen pipes can quickly turn into a costly nightmare. Start by insulating any exposed pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces. Keep your thermostat at least 55°F (ideally closer to 65°F) even when you’re away and open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air reach your plumbing. Double check that you know where your main water shut-off valve is—just in case. A little preventative action now can prevent a big mess later.

Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Snow and ice aren’t just inconvenient; they can cause serious damage. Before the first freeze, clear leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water overflow. Take a close look at your roof for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or early signs of leaks in the attic. Installing gutter guards is another smart move to reduce debris and improve drainage. A quick inspection this fall could save you from costly repairs down the line.

Seal Windows and Doors

Drafty windows and doors aren’t just annoying—they’re expensive. Check for cracks, gaps, and worn weatherstripping, then seal them with caulk or replace the weatherstripping. For extra warmth and energy savings, consider thermal curtains, insulating window film, or storm windows. Not only will your home feel cozier, but you’ll likely notice lower energy bills too.

Protect Entryways

Slush, snow, and salt can quickly ruin your floors and create safety hazards. Place durable doormats both inside and outside entrances and consider adding a boot tray for wet shoes and boots. Regularly cleaning entryways will help protect flooring and keep your home safe for family and guests alike.

Prepare the Exterior

Winter isn’t just about what’s inside your home. Take care of the exterior by disconnecting and draining hoses, shutting off outdoor faucets, and storing patio furniture. Sweep decks, porches, and walkways to remove debris that could freeze over and cause slips. Stock up on ice melt or sand for driveways and walkways, and inspect railings, fences, and outdoor lighting to ensure everything is secure and ready for the season.

Final Thoughts

Winter home maintenance isn’t just a checklist—it’s an investment in your home’s comfort, safety, and long-term value. Tackling these tasks now can prevent unexpected problems, save money, and make your winter season far more enjoyable. With a little extra effort now, your home will be ready to face the season with confidence.