As the temperatures start dropping in the Mid-South, it’s time to prepare your home for winter. Whether you’re a longtime homeowner, a first-time buyer, or getting your house ready to sell, winter maintenance plays a huge role in protecting your investment and preventing costly repairs.
Cold snaps can lead to frozen pipes, HVAC issues, roof problems, and even water damage if you’re not prepared. The good news? With a little planning, you can keep your home safe, warm, and running efficiently all season long.
Below I’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you winter-proof your home & if you want a simple, printable version to keep on hand, you can download my FREE Cold Weather Checklist at the end of this post.
1. PROTECT YOUR PIPES FROM FREEZING
Frozen pipes are one of the most common & expensive cold weather problems homeowners face. Prevent them before temperatures drop:
- Insulate exposed pipes in attics, crawl spaces, basements, garages, and outdoor areas.
- Open cabinet doors under sinks to let warm air circulate during freezing temps.
- Let faucets drip on extremely cold nights to keep water moving.
- Locate your main water shut-off valve NOW so you can act quickly in an emergency.
PRO TIP: Outdoor faucet covers are one of the easiest ways to prevent a burst pipe.
2. SAFEGUARD YOUR HOME’S EXTERIOR
Winter weather is tough on the outside of your home - especially older homes or properties with lots of trees. Prepare your exterior by:
- Disconnecting and storing all garden hoses.
- Covering outdoor faucets with insulated covers.
- Cleaning gutters and downspouts to prevent ice buildup.
- Checking siding, window frames, and trim for gaps or cracks where cold air or moisture could sneak in.
A quick weekend walk-around can prevent weeks of repairs later.
3. PREPARE YOUR HVAC SYSTEM FOR WINTER
Your heating system works overtime in the winter. Show it some love:
- Replace HVAC filters (every 1–3 months is ideal).
- Schedule a professional service if you haven’t had one in the last year.
- Have a technician check your furnace, thermostat, and heat pump to ensure peak performance.
A well-maintained system not only works better - it also saves energy and money.
4. FIREPLACE & CHIMNEY SAFETY
If your home has a fireplace, now is the perfect time to prepare it for cozy winter nights.
- Clean the fireplace and chimney before the first use of the season.
- Check for damaged bricks, loose mortar, or creosote buildup.
- Make sure the damper opens and closes properly.
Fireplaces add value and comfort - just make sure they’re safe before lighting that first fire.
5. SEAL DOORS & WINDOWS TO PREVENT DRAFTS
Drafty doors and windows can significantly increase your heating bill. Take a few simple steps:
- Inspect weather stripping and replace it if it’s cracked or worn.
- Add door sweeps to block cold air from creeping in.
- Use the “candle test” near window and door seams to find hidden drafts.
These small updates can make your home feel warmer instantly.
6. PREVENT ICE DAMS ON YOUR ROOF
Ice dams can cause serious roof damage and interior leaks. Reduce the risk by:
- Ensuring your attic has proper insulation and ventilation.
- Clearing leaves and debris from gutters and valleys.
- Never chipping ice off the roof - this can damage shingles and create leaks.
If you notice unusual icicles or uneven melting, it may be time for a roofing professional to take a look.
7. PREPARE FOR WINTER EMERGENCIES
Winter storms can cause outages, frozen roads, or delays in emergency services. Make sure you’re ready:
- Replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
- Keep a simple emergency kit with blankets, bottled water, and a flashlight.
- Consider having a backup power source for essential items, especially if you work from home.
A little preparation goes a long way when the unexpected happens.
8. EXTERIOR MAINTENANCE BEFORE COLD WEATHER HITS
Before the first freeze, take a moment to prepare your outdoor areas:
- Check garage door seals for cracks.
- Bring patio furniture cushions inside.
- Trim branches that hang over the house to prevent storm damage.
These small steps help protect your home from winter wear and tear.
9. LANDSCAPING & LAWN CARE TIPS
Your yard also needs winter prep:
- Winterize sprinkler systems if you have them.
- Protect frost-sensitive plants with covers or mulch.
- Rake and remove leaves to prevent mold growth and slipping hazards.
Healthy landscaping now means less cleanup later.
10. IF YOUR HOME WILL BE VACANT THIS WINTER
Whether you’re traveling, moving, or managing a rental property (hello, Airbnb hosts!), a vacant home needs extra care. Be sure to:
- Keep the thermostat at 60°+ to protect pipes.
- Shut off the main water supply if the home will sit empty for a long period.
- Set interior lights on timers for security.
- Contact your insurance company to confirm coverage for vacant homes.
- Ask a trusted neighbor or your REALTOR® to check on the home periodically.
Want to save this list for later?
Need a simple, printable version you can hang on your fridge or share with friends?
DOWNLOAD YOUR COLD WEATHER CHECKLIST HERE
Whether you're preparing your current home, getting ready to sell, or just want to stay ahead of winter maintenance, I’m always here to help. If you have questions, need contractor recommendations, or want to schedule a consultation - reach out anytime.
Stay warm this season!
Kaylee J. Oaks, REALTOR® | Hometown Realty | (901) 494-0127 mobile | (901) 873-SELL office | kaylee@hometowntn.com
