Winter maintenance is mostly monitoring, preventing freeze damage, and catching problems early. Use the slow season to plan spring and summer projects so you're first in line when weather breaks.
Keep interior temperature above 55°F in all rooms — even unoccupied guest rooms and closets on exterior walls
Est. cost: Energy cost increase
High priorityEst. cost: Free
High priorityEst. cost: Free
High priorityEst. cost: Free
High priorityLet cold-exposed faucets drip slightly during extreme cold snaps (below 0°F) — moving water doesn't freeze
Est. cost: Negligible water cost
Medium priorityKeep garage doors closed during extreme cold — attached garages share walls with the home
Est. cost: Free
Medium priorityEst. cost: $50–$150 rake; $300–$1,500 removal service
High priorityDo not use rock salt on roof ice dams — it damages shingles and corrodes gutters
Est. cost: Free advice
High priorityKeep weight of snow accumulation in mind — flat or low-pitched roofs have a limit (typically 20–25 lbs/sq ft)
Est. cost: Roof rake rental $50
Medium priorityEst. cost: Free inspection
Medium priorityEst. cost: $75–$200 service call
High priorityEst. cost: $15–$75
High priorityKeep snow and ice cleared from HVAC heat pump outdoor unit — don't let it become encased in ice
Est. cost: Free
High priorityCheck heating vents and registers to ensure none are blocked by furniture, rugs, or debris
Est. cost: Free
Medium priorityEst. cost: Free self-check; $150–$400 professional
Medium priorityEst. cost: Free on FixaPros
Medium priorityEst. cost: Free review
Medium priorityOrganize home improvement records — permits, warranties, contractor contacts, and project photos
Est. cost: Free
Low priorityClean and reorganize the attic or basement — winter is ideal for sorting and decluttering
Est. cost: Free
Low priorityInspect and test garage door opener in cold weather — cold can affect battery performance and springs
Est. cost: Free; $100–$300 spring replacement
Low priorityDeep clean kitchen exhaust hood and grease filters — fire hazard in homes with heavy cooking
Est. cost: Free DIY
Medium priorityEst. cost: Free
Medium priorityRequest estimates from up to three matched contractors when available. Confirm their service area and credentials directly; an estimate request does not book an appointment.
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