Tips to Prepare Your Home for the Winter Season

The winter months can sometimes bring about unique challenges for homeowners, and even if you’ve recently moved into a new Wilkinson home, it’s still important to have a maintenance checklist to ensure that it stays warm, comfortable and protected for years to come. With this in mind, read on to see some of our top tips to keep your home in excellent condition this winter season.

Clean your gutters

Before the winter weather gets too intense, you’ll want to take the time to thoroughly clean your gutters. Leaves, twigs and other debris can block the flow of water, sometimes leading to overflowing gutters, ice dams and even some structural damage to your roof or siding. Ice dams, in particular, tend to form when water from melting snow has nowhere to go and refreezes, but by ensuring that your gutters are clear, you can protect your home’s exterior and foundation from those water-related issues. 

Check your furnace and HVAC system

Your heating system is the heart of your home during winter, so it’s a good idea to schedule a professional inspection to ensure that your furnace is running efficiently. Additionally, don’t overlook your HVAC filters—these should be replaced regularly, especially during the first few months in your new home when dust from construction can clog filters faster than usual. A well-maintained heating system ensures consistent warmth and can even help you reduce some of your energy costs. 

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Winter often means running heating systems or space heaters—both increasing the risk of fire or carbon monoxide exposure. Checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors regularly is crucial to keep your home safe, so make sure you take the time to replace batteries as needed and test devices every so often to ensure they’re always functioning properly, especially during this time of year. 

Reverse ceiling fan direction

Ceiling fans don’t have to be for the summer months alone, but if you do have them on during winter, you’ll want to set them to rotate clockwise on a low setting. This adjustment can help push the warm air that naturally rises to the ceiling back down into your living space and is a simple yet effective tip that can make rooms feel warmer without overworking your heating system. 

Important tips to keep in mind

• Perform regular maintenance: Winter can be unpredictable, so setting a schedule for regular checks on your home’s systems and exterior is very important and allows you to catch minor issues—like a clogged gutter or a drafty window.
• Call in the experts when needed: For tasks like inspecting your roof or servicing your furnace, trust a professional. These tasks require expertise to ensure they are done safely and correctly, and a professional inspection can also provide you with valuable peace of mind. 
• Locate your water shut-off valve: In extreme cold, even well-insulated pipes can sometimes freeze. In the event of a burst pipe, knowing where your main water shut-off valve is located can save precious time and help minimize water damage. Test the valve periodically to ensure it’s working properly and make sure that everyone in your household knows where it is and how to work it. 
• Stay aware of the weather: Winter storms can arrive suddenly, bringing heavy snow, ice or freezing rain, so it’s always a good idea to monitor local forecasts and prepare your home by stocking up on essentials like salt for walkways, shovels and emergency supplies. 

Enjoy your home this holiday season

By staying proactive with these winter maintenance tips, you’ll ensure that your Wilkinson home remains a cozy haven during this time of year. If this is the season for you to find a brand new home of your own, our team is here to help. Take a look at our new construction homes in Dover, Felton and Newark, and give us a call at 302-275-1567 or fill out our online form today to learn more.