Colorado Homeowners’ Winter Checklist: What to Do Before Spring Arrives
After 25 years of helping homeowners buy and sell in Colorado, I’ve seen firsthand how our winters can take a toll on a home. February is the perfect time to get ahead of any issues before spring arrives. A little maintenance now can save you a lot of money (and headaches) down the road. Here’s what I recommend checking off your list:
1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Heavy snow, ice, and wind can do a number on your roof. Take a look for missing or damaged shingles and check for any signs of leaks in your attic or ceilings. While you’re at it, make sure your gutters are clear of debris. Melting snow needs a clear path to drain properly—otherwise, you risk water damage or ice dams forming.
2. Check for Ice Dams and Prevent Future Damage
Speaking of ice dams, these can be a real problem in Colorado’s fluctuating winter temperatures. If you notice large icicles forming along your gutters, it could be a sign of improper insulation. Adding attic insulation and sealing any air leaks can prevent costly roof damage in the future.
3. Service Your Furnace and HVAC System
Your heating system has been working overtime all winter, so now’s a great time to schedule a service check. Changing your filters, cleaning vents, and ensuring everything is running efficiently will help extend the life of your system—and keep those energy bills in check.
4. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter means closed-up homes and more time spent indoors, which makes carbon monoxide risks higher. Take a moment to test all your smoke and CO detectors and replace any old batteries. This is a small task that can literally save lives.
5. Seal Drafty Windows and Doors
If you’ve noticed a draft this winter, don’t ignore it. Sealing gaps around windows and doors not only keeps your home more comfortable but also reduces energy costs. Weather stripping and caulking are quick fixes that make a big difference.
6. Check for Plumbing Leaks and Insulate Pipes
Cold temperatures can cause pipes to freeze and burst, leading to costly repairs. Inspect any exposed pipes in basements, garages, and crawl spaces. If you haven’t already, wrapping them with insulation can prevent freezing in the final weeks of winter.
7. Prepare Your Lawn and Landscaping
It might not seem like it, but February is the perfect time to start thinking about your lawn. Trim back any damaged branches that could break under heavy snow, and start planning for early spring fertilization. If you want a green, healthy lawn come summer, now’s the time to get a head start.
8. Deep Clean and Declutter
Winter tends to bring clutter—boots, coats, holiday decorations, and all the extra indoor mess that comes from spending more time inside. Take a weekend to declutter and do a deep clean. If you’re thinking about selling in the spring, this is an easy way to make your home feel fresh and inviting.
9. Inspect Your Driveway and Walkways
Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause cracks in driveways and sidewalks. Take a walk around your property and look for any damage that needs to be patched before it gets worse. A little preventative maintenance now can keep small cracks from turning into costly repairs later.
10. Plan for Spring Projects
Once the snow melts, everyone rushes to schedule contractors for exterior work like painting, roofing, and landscaping. If you know you’ll need work done this spring, start getting estimates and booking appointments now to beat the rush.
Final Thoughts
As someone who has spent over two decades helping homeowners navigate the ups and downs of Colorado’s housing market, I can tell you this—homes that are well-maintained not only hold their value better but also sell faster when the time comes. Taking care of these small tasks in February will put you ahead of the game and protect your biggest investment.
If you need recommendations for local contractors or have questions about preparing your home for sale, feel free to reach out. I’m always happy to help fellow Colorado homeowners stay ahead of the curve!