Winter Home Maintenance in the Hudson Valley: A Guide for NEW Homeowners
You just closed on your new home, but it's still Winter in the Hudson Valley! Owning a home in our beautiful area offers a unique blend of nature, charm, and tranquility. But along with the picturesque views and quiet surroundings comes the responsibility of taking care of your property—especially now while the snow is still falling. If you’ve never owned a home in the country before, you might be unfamiliar with the specifics of maintaining your home in colder climates. No need to worry! We’ve put together a simple guide to help you navigate the essentials of winter home maintenance in the Hudson Valley.
Insulate Your Pipes
In the winter, freezing temperatures can wreak havoc on unprotected pipes. Burst pipes are one of the most common issues for homeowners in colder regions, and they can lead to significant water damage. To prevent this, ensure that any exposed pipes in unheated spaces (like basements, attics, or crawl spaces) are properly insulated. Foam pipe insulation or heat tape can make a big difference. Additionally, consider letting your faucets drip slightly on the coldest nights to relieve pressure in the pipes.
Check Your Heating System
It's so important to make sure your heating system is running smoothly and efficiently! There's nothing like waking up at 3am on a Saturday with no heat. Avoid surprises by having your sytem serviced annually. Many local fuel companies have service plans you can sign up for. You can also sign up for automatic fuel delivery so you never run out. The fuel delivery personnel should be able to access your fill points, so keep the area shoveled and free of ice. If you want to get even more efficient, you can purchase smart home thermostats like Nest so you can set and monitor your home's temperature from anywhere.
Inspect and Maintain Your Roof
Snow and ice can accumulate quickly on roofs in the Hudson Valley, so it’s important to ensure that your roof is in good condition. Look for any loose or damaged shingles, ideally before the first snowstorm. If your home has a steep roof, be sure to check for ice dams and consider installing “snow dogs” to stop ice and snow from falling. Ice dams can form when heat from your home melts the snow, which then refreezes at the edge of the roof, causing water to back up and potentially leak into your home. Consider installing heating cables along the roofline to help prevent ice dams. These are great chores for next Fall if the weather won’t allow it now.
Seal Gaps and Drafts
Cold drafts can sneak into your home through the smallest gaps around windows, doors, and walls. During winter, this can mean higher heating bills and a less comfortable living space. Take the time to check for drafts, especially in older homes where weatherproofing might be lacking. Caulking, weatherstripping, or even using draft stoppers can make a huge difference in keeping the cold air outside where it belongs.
Prepare Your Fireplace or Wood Stove
Nothing beats the cozy warmth of a fire on a cold winter day. If you have a fireplace or wood stove, make sure it’s ready for use. Have the chimney cleaned to prevent dangerous buildup, and stock up on firewood (ideally seasoned wood) if you haven’t already. Remember never to burn treated or painted wood, as it can release harmful fumes.
Get Ready for Snow Removal
Living in the country means you’re likely to encounter significant snowfall throughout the winter. If you don’t already have one, consider investing in a snow blower or even a truck with a plow, especially if you have a long driveway. Keep walkways and driveways clear to avoid accidents, and make sure you have a reliable shovel and ice melt or salt on hand to treat slippery spots. The previous owner probably had a snow removal service, so be sure to get that info!
Winterize Your Outdoor Equipment
If you have a lawnmower, or other outdoor equipment, there’s still time to properly winterize them. Drain gas from lawnmowers, pressure washers, or other gas-powered tools, as leftover fuel can degrade and cause issues next season. Additionally, store hoses indoors to prevent them from freezing, and clean and cover any outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements.
Stock Up on Emergency Supplies
Winter storms in the Hudson Valley can sometimes knock out power for several days. It’s a good idea to have an emergency kit stocked with essentials like water, non-perishable food, extra blankets, flashlights and candles, batteries, and a first-aid kit. Also, keep a spare set of warm clothes, a good book, a battery-powered phone charger, and any medications you may need. Make sure your car is gassed up too!
Embrace the Beauty of Winter
Finally, take some time to enjoy the winter season. The Hudson Valley is known for its breathtaking snow-covered landscapes, and there’s no better way to appreciate it than from the comfort of your own home. If you have a fireplace, curl up with a book or a hot drink, spend some time outdoors hiking, snowshoeing, or skiing, and enjoy the peaceful winter landscape.
By staying on top of these winter home maintenance tasks, you can ensure that your home is safe, comfortable, and well-prepared for the last few cold months. While owning a home in the Hudson Valley may require a bit more effort, the rewards of living in this picturesque area are well worth it. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy all that winter in the country has to offer!
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Posted by Lisa Halter on
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