When the cool fall air descends upon Breckenridge, there’s no denying that snow season is approaching. Because we live in a mountain town like ours, we are used to the unusual difficulties of maintaining a high-altitude home, as well as the severe snowfall and cold temperatures. Fall is the perfect time to prepare your property for winter. Proactive maintenance ensures your home stays warm, safe, and protected all season long.
Here’s a fall home maintenance checklist to help you get ready for winter in Breckenridge:
Roof Inspection and Gutter Cleaning
Make sure your roof is in excellent shape before winter arrives because it is your house’s first line of defense against snow and ice.
Look for leaks, broken or missing shingles, or other issues that could worsen with snow accumulation on the roof.
To avoid ice dams, make sure your downspouts and gutters are clean. Water may collect and freeze in blocked gutters, potentially causing damage to the foundation and roof.
Consider installing gutter guards to reduce debris buildup throughout the year.
Inspect and Seal Windows & Doors
Keeping your home warm during Breckenridge’s freezing winters means correctly sealing your windows and doors.
Check for drafts around windows and doors. Use caulk or weatherstripping to seal gaps where cold air could sneak in.
Use insulated curtains or energy-efficient windows to increase security and lower heat loss.
Service Your Heating System
Verify that your heating system is operating efficiently before the temperature decreases.
Make an appointment for an expert HVAC inspection. A professional can inspect, clean, and ensure your furnace runs as effectively.
In order to increase efficiency and quality of air, replace your filters.
To maximize your winter energy savings, replace your old thermostat with a smart one or ensure it is operating correctly.
Prepare Your Fireplace and Chimney
It’s time to winterize your fireplace, whether it burns wood or gas. Before you winterize the fireplace in your house, whether it burns wood or gas, it is winterized.
Use a professional chimney sweeper to get rid of any soot or debris that can start a fire.
Winterize Your Irrigation System
With freezing temperatures ahead, your outdoor water systems need attention to avoid damage from burst pipes.
Drain and shut off outdoor water faucets and sprinkler systems. This will prevent pipes from freezing and cracking when the temperatures drop.
If you have an irrigation system, blow out the lines to remove any remaining water.
Check Your Home’s Exterior
Autumn is the perfect time to have your home’s exterior checked and make any necessary repairs before snow arrives.
Check patios, decks, and siding for any damage that might get worse in the winter, such as peeling paint or cracks.
To prevent snow and ice from making driveways and walkways worse, seal any gaps.
Trees and shrubs hanging over your roof need to be pruned. Prolonged accumulation of snow on tree limbs may cause fractures, resulting in harm to your possessions.
Prepare for Snow Removal
Snowstorms are a given in Breckenridge, so being prepared for efficient snow removal is essential.
Inspect your snowblower and make sure it’s in working condition. Get it serviced now if needed.
Stock up on ice melt or sand for icy walkways and driveways.
Check snow shovels and other snow removal tools to ensure they’re ready for action.
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
As heating systems will be used more often in the winter, it’s essential to ensure that your home’s safety equipment is functioning properly.
Replace the batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.
Test the alarms to ensure they work and replace outdated ones.
Protect Outdoor Furniture
Snow and ice can cause significant wear on your outdoor furniture.
Clean and cover patio furniture or store it in a shed or garage.
Any textiles or pillows should be kept in a warm, dry place during the winter to prevent damage.
Prepare for Power Outages
It’s a good idea to be prepared for winter storms because they can occasionally cause power disruptions in our more rural and isolated locations.
Verify that your backup generator is running correctly if you have one.
Store essentials such as nonperishable food, flashlights, and batteries for emergencies.
By taking care of these fall maintenance chores, you can safeguard your Breckenridge house from potential winter damage and ensure it remains warm and comfortable throughout the snowy season. By taking the time now, you can avoid expensive repairs and have peace of mind when the snow begins to fall.
Enjoy the splendor of October in Breckenridge while remaining warm and safe!
