Learn easy tips and when to call for help
Truth be told, we don’t feel like doing home maintenance in the cold. But getting a few things done in January can set you up for a successful New Year – ideally without any major home repairs.
Here’s what we suggest you prioritize and how we approach the job.
Holiday cleanup
The fun is over! Now, it’s time to clear the slate. That means doing things like taking down holiday lights and wrapping them around a hanger to prevent tangling or setting the oven to self-clean before wiping down the interior with a vinegar-soaked cloth.
And remember all those holiday cards that came in the mail a month ago? Take a pretty part of each card without writing on the back, cut it into a small square, punch a hole into the corner, and you’ve turned it from trash into gift tags for next year!
(And if you’re not feeling up to cleaning, we get it – a pro cleaning crew can help you reset for a one-time fee of $116-$235).
Protect the pipes
A frozen pipe can crack or burst, flooding your home. So, if you’re planning a winter getaway, don’t forget to wrap pipes with heat tape you can control with a thermostat.
Speaking of not forgetting, you turned off the water to your outdoor spigots already, right? If not, stop reading, shut off the water valves, and open spigots to drain any existing water. If a pipe is already frozen, wrap it with a heating pad or turn a hairdryer on it.
If worst comes to worst, shut off the main water valve to your home and call a plumber who likely has already dealt with a few burst pipes this season.
Check for storm damage
We haven’t had a winter like this one in a while! While we enjoy some snow, you should check your home’s roof, siding, gutters and yard for wind, snow or ice damage.
Pro tip: Instead of climbing on the roof, use binoculars or a drone to search for damage.
Literal pro tip: A little storm damage can be a big deal if you don’t make immediate repairs. If you spot any problems, call in an expert to address them ASAP.
Do a deep declutter
You don’t need to wait for spring for this one! Get rid of piles, clean out closets and drawers, and head down to the basement if you have the time and energy. If you haven’t touched something in a year or make a face when you pick it up, that’s probably a sign to toss, donate or recycle it.
Thinking of time and energy, we recommend doing a little bit at a time instead of trying to take care of the whole house in one marathon session. Plus, professional organizers can give you new ideas to tame the chaos in your home and offer an independent mind to your prized possessions.