Protect Your Home Before Freezing Temperatures Arrive

Simple winter-preparation steps that can help protect your home, prevent costly repairs, and keep your family comfortable

November in Hampton Roads can bring beautiful fall afternoons, chilly evenings, and the occasional reminder that winter is right around the corner.

While our winters are generally milder than those in many other parts of the country, freezing temperatures can still catch homeowners off guard.

And unfortunately, it doesn't take a major winter storm to cause damage. A few hours of freezing weather can create problems for exposed plumbing, outdoor faucets, and poorly insulated areas of your home.

The good news is that a little preparation now can help you avoid bigger headaches later.

1. Disconnect and Store Garden Hoses

One of the easiest winter-preparation tasks is also one of the most frequently overlooked.

Disconnect garden hoses from outdoor faucets, drain any remaining water, and store them somewhere protected.

Leaving a hose attached can trap water near the faucet, increasing the risk of freezing and damage.

If your home has an indoor shutoff valve for an exterior faucet, follow the manufacturer's instructions for winterizing that line.

2. Protect Vulnerable Pipes

Pipes in unheated garages, crawl spaces, attics, and exterior walls may be especially vulnerable during freezing weather.

Check accessible plumbing for missing or damaged insulation, and consider adding appropriate pipe insulation where needed.

Locate your home's main water shutoff valve and make sure everyone responsible for the home knows how to use it.

Quick tip: If a pipe freezes, never attempt to thaw it with an open flame. If you suspect a burst pipe or cannot safely thaw the line, contact a licensed plumber.

3. Check Your Heating System

The last thing anyone wants is to discover a heating problem during the first truly cold night of the season.

Replace or clean your HVAC filter as recommended, make sure supply and return vents aren't blocked, and test your heating system before temperatures drop.

If your system is overdue for professional maintenance, consider scheduling a service appointment.

For homes with fireplaces or wood-burning appliances, have the chimney and equipment inspected and maintained as appropriate before use.

4. Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors

Small gaps around doors and windows can make your home feel colder and force your heating system to work harder.

Walk through your home and check for noticeable drafts.

Inspect weatherstripping, door sweeps, and accessible exterior caulking. Replace damaged materials where appropriate.

These small improvements can make your home more comfortable throughout the winter.

5. Clear Gutters and Check Drainage

Fall leaves can quickly clog gutters and downspouts.

When water cannot drain properly, it may overflow near your foundation or contribute to moisture problems around your home.

Remove accumulated leaves and debris, check that downspouts are secure, and make sure water is directed away from the foundation.

Use appropriate ladder safety precautions or hire a professional if the work cannot be completed safely from the ground.

6. Prepare for a Winter Power Outage

Even in coastal Virginia, winter storms can bring strong winds, heavy rain, ice, and occasional power outages.

Keep flashlights, batteries, charging banks, drinking water, and essential supplies somewhere easy to access.

Check that smoke alarms and carbon monoxide alarms are functioning properly.

If you use a portable generator, operate it outdoors only, at least 20 feet from doors, windows, and vents, with the exhaust directed away from the home. Never use a generator inside a garage, even with the door open.

7. Know What to Do When a Freeze Is Forecast

When temperatures are expected to drop below freezing, a few additional precautions may help.

• Follow local utility and plumbing guidance for protecting vulnerable water lines.
• Open cabinet doors beneath sinks on exterior walls when appropriate to allow warmer indoor air to circulate.
• Maintain adequate indoor heat, including when traveling.
• Know how to shut off your water supply if a pipe bursts.
• Check on vacant properties or arrange for someone to monitor them during prolonged cold weather.

If you plan to be away for the holidays, consider having a trusted neighbor or property manager check your home during severe weather.

A Little Prevention Goes a Long Way

Preparing for winter doesn't have to mean spending an entire weekend on home maintenance.

Start with the simple tasks you can handle yourself, make a list of anything that needs professional attention, and tackle the most important items before freezing weather arrives.

Protecting your home today can help you spend less time worrying about repairs and more time enjoying the season ahead.

At Datsko Home Sales, we believe taking care of the home you have is just as important as finding the next one.

Whether you need a recommendation for a local service professional or have questions about your home's long-term value, we're always happy to be a resource.

Patrick Datsko, REALTOR®, SRES®
Datsko Home Sales | OWN Real Estate

Where YOU find your home.