Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

Keep your home safe, warm, and protected through the coldest months of the year.

At The Kate Seaman Team, we know how much care goes into maintaining a home — especially through an Ithaca winter. This seasonal checklist is designed to help you protect your investment, stay comfortable, and avoid those unexpected cold-weather surprises.

1. Keep Entrances Safe and Accessible

Snow and ice are part of the charm (and challenge) of winter living. Try to keep walkways, driveways, and entry steps cleared regularly to prevent buildup. A light layer of salt or sand can help with traction, especially near main entrances or mailboxes.
If you’ll be away for an extended period, consider arranging snow removal ahead of time so everything stays safe and accessible.

2. Protect Your Roof and Gutters

Keep an eye out for ice dams — those ridges of ice that can form along your roofline when snow melts and refreezes. They can cause water to back up under shingles and lead to leaks.
After storms, safely remove snow from roof edges with a roof rake, and make sure gutters and downspouts are clear so melting snow drains properly.

3. Circulate Warm Air Efficiently

A few small adjustments can help your home feel warmer without turning up the thermostat.

Switch ceiling fans to clockwise rotation to push warm air downward.
Check that vents and radiators aren’t blocked by furniture or curtains.
If you have a fireplace or wood stove, schedule a chimney inspection and cleaning before frequent use.

4. Prevent Frozen Pipes

When temperatures drop, even a little preparation makes a big difference.

On especially cold nights, let a slow trickle of water run from faucets.
Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air to circulate.
Check basements, crawl spaces, and unheated areas for exposed pipes and insulate them if needed.

5. Test and Refresh Safety Devices

Winter often means more time indoors — make sure your safety systems are ready.

Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed.
Inspect fire extinguishers for expiration dates or visible wear.
If you use a generator, double-check that it’s in good working order and always operate it outdoors.

6. Watch for Drafts and Moisture

Condensation or frost around windows can signal heat loss.

Add weatherstripping or window film to reduce drafts.
Keep an eye on basement corners and foundation walls for signs of moisture, especially during freeze-thaw cycles.
Consider running a dehumidifier in damp areas to maintain air quality.

7. Review Emergency Supplies and Access

Make sure you have a clear path to your furnace, electrical panel, and main water shutoff valve in case of emergencies.
Review your emergency kit — include flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, water, blankets, and a first-aid kit.
Confirm that backup heat sources are safe and ready to use.

A bit of winter maintenance now can make the whole season easier and more comfortable.
Whether you’re staying cozy at home or preparing to sell in the months ahead, taking care of these small details helps protect your property and peace of mind.

— The Kate Seaman Team at Warren Real Estate

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist – Keep your home safe, warm, and protected through the coldest months of the year!