As the New Year begins, January is the perfect opportunity to kickstart the year by taking care of your home during the coldest months. Amidst the cold weather, it’s important to make sure your property is well-maintained. Here’s a quick January home maintenance checklist for Omaha homeowners:
1. Check and Protect for Winter Damage
Inspect your home for any potential damage caused by winter weather.
- Roof Inspection: Look for missing shingles, leaks, or signs of damage caused by snow and ice.
- Check Siding and Exterior: Inspect for cracks, peeling paint, or damage due to freezing temperatures.
- Protect Your Outdoor Spaces: Drain and store garden hoses to prevent them from freezing and bursting. Cover outdoor faucets or shut them off at the source to avoid winter damage.
2. Keep Your Home Warm and Efficient
Maintain a cozy and energy-efficient home during the cold season.
- Check Insulation: Ensure your attic and walls are properly insulated to retain heat.
- Inspect and Maintain Your Furnace: Your furnace works overtime during Omaha winters. Clean or replace furnace filters every 1-3 months for optimal efficiency. Schedule a professional tune-up to ensure it’s running safely and effectively.
- Prevent Frozen Pipes: Midwestern homeowners know the dangers of frozen pipes. Insulate exposed pipes in your basement, garage, or crawl spaces to prevent them from freezing and bursting during subzero temperatures.
- Seal Drafts: Address any drafts around windows and doors to conserve heat and reduce energy bills.
- Clean Dryer Vents: Lint buildup in dryer vents is a common fire hazard. Clean the lint trap after every use and inspect the vent pipe to ensure it’s clear.
3. Prepare for Thawing
- Clear Snow and Ice: Remove snow from walkways and driveways to prevent slips and falls. Clear snow from around the foundation to prevent water damage.
- Inspect Basement and Foundation: Look for signs of water seepage or moisture buildup in basements and crawl spaces.
4. Plumbing Maintenance
- Monitor Water Pressure: Low water pressure might indicate a frozen pipe.
- Keep Heat On: If leaving town, maintain a minimum temperature in your home to prevent frozen pipes.
5. Plan Ahead
- Prepare for Snow Removal: Omaha winters can bring heavy snowfall. Stock up on de-icing salt, sand, and a sturdy snow shovel or snow blower. Clear walkways and driveways promptly for safety.
- Make sure you have a snow removal company (or two) you like for snow days
- Review Home Improvement Projects: Plan for any renovations or repairs you’d like to undertake in the upcoming months, like Spring exterior work or
- Organize and Declutter: Start the year fresh by organizing and decluttering your home. Resetting your house after Christmas? This is the perfect time to start with your declutter, too!
6. Safety Checks
- Test Smoke and CO Detectors: Check smoke detectors and carbon monoxide alarms to ensure they’re functioning properly.
- Emergency Preparedness: Check and update your emergency kits/supplies in case of power outages or severe weather.
Why Winter Maintenance Matters
Winter maintenance isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about protecting your home’s value. For Omaha homeowners thinking about selling in the future, a well-maintained home can make a big difference in buyer interest and home inspections.
If you’re curious about how your winter efforts can pay off when it’s time to sell, let’s chat! I specialize in helping Omaha homeowners navigate the real estate market, even in the depths of winter.
Need more homeowner tips or advice on Omaha real estate? I’m here to help. Reach out anytime—I’d love to connect!
Cara Crawford
Omaha’s Local Real Estate Expert
📧
ca**@ca************.com
| 📞 402-524-1213
