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For anybody that has lived through at least one Virginia winter they are best described as unpredictable. For those of you where this is your first Virginia winter, buckle up! One week may feel like the perfect winter wonderland and the next can bring freezing temperatures, ice, or an unexpected snowfall. And as much as people try to predict the weather, it loves to prove us wrong and keep us guessing. With these tips you can prepare your home before the winter weather hits. This will help protect your investment, keep your family comfortable, and prevent costly repairs down the road.
Whether you’re a long-time homeowner, preparing to sell, or settling into a new home, these practical winter maintenance tips are tailored specifically for our Virginia climate.
1. Service Your Heating System
Virginia’s cold season often includes damp, chilly days that make your heating system work a little harder.
What to do:
- Replace HVAC filters every 30-60 days
- Schedule a professional system check
- Clean vents and make sure that air can move freely through them
Why it matters: Regular maintenance helps your system run efficiently and reduces the risk of unexpected breakdowns during the coldest weeks.
2. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing
A sudden drop in temperature can happen quickly here, especially overnight.
What to do:
- Insulate exposed pipes in garages, crawl spaces, and basements
- Allow faucets to drip when temperatures drop below freezing
Why it matters: This prevents frozen or burst pipes, which can lead to serious water damage and expensive repairs.
3. Clean Gutters and Downspouts
After Virginia’s long fall season, gutters tend to collect leaves and debris.
What to do:
- Clear gutters thoroughly
- Ensure all downspouts direct water away from your home (downspout extensions are a great tool for extra help with this)
Why it matters: Clean gutters help prevent ice building up in the gutters, leaks, and foundation problems throughout the winter.
4. Check For Air Leaks Around Doors and Windows
Even small gaps can let in cold air.
What to do:
- Add or replace weatherstripping
- Use caulk around drafty areas
- Install or check door sweeps/weather stripping
Why it matters: Proper sealing keeps your home warmer and your energy bills lower.
- Extra Tip! Reverse your ceiling fans blades so they run clockwise. This pushes heated air down to help keep you warm and cozy.
5. Prepare Chimneys and Fireplaces
If you use a wood-burning stove or fireplace, a winter inspection is essential.
What to do:
- Schedule a professional chimney cleaning
- Check for structural issues or buildup
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Why it matters: This reduces fire risks and ensures your fireplace operates safely and efficiently.
- Extra tip! Make sure you are well stocked on firewood and you have a place to store some in the house as well as near the house.
6. Prepare for Possible Power Outages
Winter storms in Virginia can cause short-term outages.
What to do:
- Keep flashlights, blankets, and batteries in one easily accessible place
- Have a portable phone charger available
- Consider a small generator for longer outages (Black Friday is coming up)
Why it matters: Even brief power outages can be uncomfortable. Being prepared keeps your household safe.
7. Inspect Exterior Openings Into Your House
Cold weather can drive pests indoors.
What to do:
- Seal small gaps around the foundation, siding, windows, and doors
- Inspect attic and crawl space vent screens
Why it matters: Prevents rodents and insects from finding warmth inside your home.
8. Trim Trees and Overhanging Branches
Ice and snow is very heavy and an icy branch can quickly become a hazard.
What to do:
- Remove dead branches
- Trim limbs hanging over the house or driveway
Why it matters: Protects your roof, vehicles, and the power lines from falling debris.
9. Shut Off and Winterize Outdoor Water Sources
Freezing temperatures can crack exposed pipes.
What to do:
- Disconnect hoses, empty the water out, and store them away
- Shut off and drain outdoor faucets
- Store garden equipment in a garage or shed
Why it matters: Prevents leaks, bursts, and outdoor plumbing damage.
10. Check Walkways and Driveways
Freeze-thaw cycles are common in Virginia. This can lead to structural weakening from the expansion of ice.
What to do:
- Repair cracks before ice expands them
- Keep ice melt accessible
- Treat high-traffic areas before snow or ice fall
Why it matters: Helps avoid slip hazards and prevents surface deterioration.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for the winter goes a long way in helping protect your home, family, and furry friends. Virginia can be known for its unpredictable weather patterns, especially in the winter. By tackling these tasks early, you’ll improve your home’s efficiency, safety, and long-term value.
