First-Time Homeowners' Winter Home Maintenance Checklist

For first-time homeowners experiencing their very first winter on a new property, maintaining your home against burst pipes and the like can feel daunting. However, a good winter home maintenance plan can keep your home safe and comfortable.

Inspect Your Heating System: Your heating system is the heart of your home during winter. Ensure it functions optimally by having it professionally inspected, serviced, and cleaned if necessary to prevent unexpected breakdowns on chilly nights and sustain your system's energy efficiency.

Prepare Your Outdoor Spaces: Outdoor spaces need the most attention. Drain hoses and turn off outdoor water sources to prevent freezing and bursting pipes. Cover outdoor furniture or store it indoors if possible. Lastly, ensure paths and driveways are clear of leaves or debris so they will be easier to clear when snow arrives.

Check Your Insulation: Proper insulation is crucial in preserving ambient temperatures inside your home. Start by insulating your attic where most heat tends to escape. Then, examine doors and windows for drafts and correct them with weather-stripping or caulk. Consider thermal curtains, which can help retain warmth.

Protect Your Plumbing:

Uninsulated pipes are prone to freezing and might burst when temperatures plummet, causing significant damage. To avoid this, use foam rubber or fiberglass sleeves to insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like the garage, basement, or crawlspace.

Roof and Gutter Check: Ice dams are common issues in winter, as they cause water to back up under roof shingles, leading to leaks. Ensure your gutters are clean and debris-free to allow proper water runoff. It's also wise to check for loose or missing shingles that may lead to potential leaks.

Install a Programmable Thermostat: A programmable thermostat is an energy-efficient device that allows you to set temperatures for different times of the day. Thus, you can keep your home cooler when you're away and warm it up just before you return.

Spend Winter in a Regent Home: Owning a home for the first time is a thrilling experience. By taking these winter home maintenance steps, you ensure your house remains snug and secure throughout the colder months. 

It's always a good idea to start these activities early in the fall, well before the winter season arrives. This list is not exhaustive but provides a great starting point for new homeowners preparing their homes for winter.