Winter Preparation & Maintenance Checklist for Pittsburgh Homeowners

As winter approaches in Pittsburgh, it's important to prepare your home to stay comfortable and safe throughout the colder months. Our unique weather patterns—bringing snowstorms, ice, and frigid temperatures—make winter preparation essential.

This maintenance checklist will help protect your property, improve energy efficiency, and prevent issues. Here are some key tasks to complete before the first snowfall:

1. Check Windows and Doors for Drafts

In Pittsburgh, drafty windows and doors can significantly increase heating costs. Conduct a simple check by holding a lit candle or a piece of tissue near the edges of your windows and doors. If the flame flickers or the tissue moves, you have a draft.
Seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk to keep warm air in and cold air out, making your home more energy-efficient and comfortable. Given the city's historic homes, this step is especially important for maintaining warmth in older properties.

2. Clean Out Your Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause significant issues like water damage, ice dams, and roof leaks—especially during Pittsburgh’s harsh winter months. Keep your gutters clear by removing leaves, twigs, and other debris to ensure proper drainage. For an effective clean, try using window cleaner; it works wonders on gutters too.

Since our city often experiences heavy snowfall followed by rain, maintaining clear gutters is crucial. Consider installing gutter guards to help prevent future clogs and protect your home’s foundation from potential water damage.

3. Inspect Your Roof for Any Damage

Winter weather can take a toll on your roof, making it essential to inspect it before the snow and ice arrive. Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, and signs of wear. Watch for heat spots on your roof; uneven snowmelt can indicate poor insulation where heat is escaping.

These areas might need additional insulation to improve energy efficiency. If you notice issues like unusual snowmelt patterns, contact a local roofer who understands Pittsburgh’s climate for repairs. A well-maintained roof will not only keep your home safe from leaks but also extend its lifespan against our often harsh weather conditions.

4. Drain Outdoor Faucets

To prevent pipes from freezing and bursting, drain outdoor faucets and hoses, as Pittsburgh winters often bring icy temperatures. Disconnect hoses from spigots, drain any remaining water, and store them indoors.

For faucets, turn off the water supply from inside your home and let the water drain. This simple step can save you from costly plumbing repairs later in the season.

5. Pick the Right Salt for Your Winter Needs

With winter approaching, it’s essential to choose the right salt for your home. For pet owners, consider pet-friendly options like Safe Paw or Morton Safe-T-Pet, which are gentler on paws. Be sure to stock up early to stay prepared!

Use concrete-safe salts, such as calcium magnesium acetate or magnesium chloride, to protect driveways and walkways from damage. Picking the right salt will help keep your home safe and your surfaces in good shape all winter long.

6. Service Your Heating System

Before the cold weather sets in, have your heating system serviced by a local technician familiar with Pittsburgh homes. They’ll check efficiency, clean components, and replace parts as needed to keep your system running smoothly all winter.

Routine maintenance extends your heating system’s lifespan and helps prevent unexpected breakdowns during the coldest months.

While preparing for winter, don’t forget about your air condenser. Avoid covering it with a tarp, as this traps moisture, which can lead to rust and rotting. Tarps also create a warm, damp environment that attracts rodents, which can cause costly damage. Instead, use a ventilated air condenser cover that protects the unit from debris while allowing moisture to escape. This small step helps ensure your system stays in top condition year-round.

7. Insulate Pipes

Protect your plumbing during cold months by insulating exposed pipes in areas like basements, attics, or exterior walls with foam insulation or old towels. This helps prevent freezing and bursting, which can lead to costly water damage. On especially cold days, open the cabinets under your sinks to allow warmth from your home to reach the pipes.

Homeowners might also consider installing a whole-house automatic shut-off valve from Moen. It detects leaks and automatically shuts off the water supply, adding extra protection and helping to prevent extensive water damage. These simple steps can help protect your plumbing and avoid expensive repairs throughout the winter.

8. Check Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With increased heating in winter, it’s crucial to make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly. Test the batteries and replace them if necessary.

If you don’t already have one, consider installing a carbon monoxide detector. This gas, produced by gas-burning appliances, can be deadly. Regular maintenance of these devices can help keep your family safe throughout the winter months.

9. Stock Up on Winter Supplies

Ensure you have all the essential supplies on hand. Snowstorms can strike unexpectedly in Pittsburgh, so it is wise to prepare in advance. Keep salt or sand handy for icy sidewalks and driveways, and ensure your shovels and snow blowers are in good working condition.

Remember to equip your vehicle with an emergency kit that includes essentials like flashlights, batteries, bottled water, and non-perishable food. Having a home emergency kit is also a smart move, especially in case of power outages caused by heavy snow or ice.

10. Review Your Home Insurance Policy

Winter weather can lead to significant damage to your home, so it’s a good time to review your insurance policy. Ensure your coverage is sufficient for winter incidents, such as roof damage from heavy snow or water damage from frozen pipes. Contact your insurance agent to discuss any specific concerns related to Pittsburgh’s winter climate.

It's time to get your home ready for the colder months. We encourage you to print this handy prep list to help you keep track of everything you need to do. Keeping it visible will make winter prep easy and stress-free, allowing you to enjoy a warm and cozy home. So go ahead and print it out—your winter-ready home awaits!

Click to Download Checklist!