As the temperatures drop and the days get shorter, November is the perfect time to prepare your home for the cold months ahead. Taking care of a few simple maintenance tasks now can help prevent bigger (and more expensive) problems later.
At Price Residential Services, we believe that small details make a big difference. Here’s a practical checklist to keep your home cozy, safe, and ready for winter.
1. Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Falling leaves may look pretty, but they can quickly clog gutters and trap moisture. When water can’t drain properly, it can cause leaks, wood rot, and foundation damage.
Tip: Once your gutters are clear, flush downspouts with a hose to make sure everything is flowing freely.
Don’t love the idea of climbing a ladder? This is one job we’re happy to take off your list.
2. Check Caulking and Weather Stripping
Cold air loves to sneak in around windows, doors, and vents. Take a quick walk around your home and look for gaps or cracks in caulk and seals. Replacing worn weather stripping or adding a fresh bead of caulk can make a noticeable difference in comfort — and your heating bill.
3. Power Wash Walkways and Decks
A good power wash removes grime, mildew, and slippery buildup from your deck, porch, and driveway. It’s not just about curb appeal — it’s also a safety measure. Clean surfaces are less likely to become slick once the frost sets in.
4. Disconnect Hoses and Protect Outdoor Faucets
Before freezing temperatures arrive, drain and disconnect all garden hoses. Add insulated faucet covers to exterior spigots to prevent frozen pipes and costly repairs.
5. Replace HVAC Filters and Test Detectors
A clean air filter helps your heating system run efficiently all winter long. While you’re at it, test the batteries in your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Fireplaces, space heaters, and holiday cooking can put extra stress on your home’s safety systems — a five-minute check can make all the difference.
6. Patch Drywall and Touch Up Paint
When you’re spending more time indoors, small imperfections become easier to notice. Now’s a great time to patch dings, nail holes, or scuffs on walls and trim. These quick refreshes can make your home look clean and well cared for before the holidays.
7. Check Doors for Drafts or Sticking
Doors that don’t latch properly or drag along the floor can be more than just an annoyance — they can signal alignment or humidity issues. Adjusting hinges, tightening screws, or replacing seals can improve both function and insulation.
8. Get Guest-Ready
If you’re hosting this season, take a walk through your home like a guest would. Tighten loose towel bars, secure wobbly furniture, and hang that artwork you’ve been meaning to get to. A few small updates can make your home feel warm and welcoming.
Bonus: Preventative Safety Checks
- Clean your dryer vent to prevent fires.
- Vacuum refrigerator coils to boost efficiency.
- Check attic insulation for moisture or pest activity.
- Inspect outdoor steps and handrails for stability.
A Little Maintenance Goes a Long Way
Proactive care keeps your home in great shape — and helps you avoid the headaches that come with neglecting seasonal upkeep.
If you’d rather hand off some of these tasks, Price Residential Services is here to help. From gutter cleaning and caulking to power washing and small home repairs, we take pride in offering professional, reliable home maintenance services throughout Kent County, Maryland.