Winter can be harsh on your home, lawn, and outdoor structures, making seasonal maintenance essential to prevent costly damage and ensure everything stays in top shape until spring. From snow removal to preventing frozen pipes, taking a proactive approach to winter maintenance will save you time, money, and headaches.
At RJ3 Property Maintenance, we specialize in seasonal property care to help homeowners and businesses navigate Minnesota’s tough winters. Whether you need snow removal, ice management, or preventative home maintenance, this guide will walk you through everything you need to keep your property safe and well-maintained this winter.
When temperatures drop, frozen pipes and ice buildup become major concerns for homeowners. Proper preparation can help you avoid burst pipes and costly water damage.
Pipes in unheated areas—like basements, crawl spaces, garages, and attics—are vulnerable to freezing. Wrapping them in foam insulation or heat tape reduces the risk of bursting due to expansion.
If the temperature drops below freezing, letting your faucets drip slightly can keep water flowing and reduce pressure buildup, which is what causes pipes to burst.
Small drafts near doors, windows, and foundation cracks can let cold air in, increasing the risk of frozen pipes. Use caulk or weather stripping to seal any gaps.
Winter brings snow and ice, which can be a major hazard if not managed properly.
Accumulated snow and ice can cause slips, falls, and vehicle accidents. Regularly shoveling and using ice melt helps prevent dangerous conditions.
Tip: Avoid using rock salt on concrete, as it can cause damage over time. Opt for calcium chloride-based ice melt, which is safer for both surfaces and plants.
👉 Internal Resource: RJ3 Property Maintenance offers reliable snow removal services to keep your property safe and accessible all winter.
Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the edges of your roof, preventing proper drainage and causing water to seep under shingles, leading to leaks and damage.
While your lawn and garden may be dormant, winter preparation ensures they bounce back healthy and vibrant in the spring.
Walking or driving on frozen turf can damage grass blades and cause compaction, leading to dead patches when spring arrives.
Harsh winter winds and heavy snow can damage or kill fragile plants. Wrapping shrubs in burlap or plant covers provides insulation.
👉 External Resource: The University of Wisconsin Extension details how to protect trees and shrubs in winter.
Leaving tools, lawnmowers, and patio furniture exposed to winter elements can cause rust and deterioration. Clean and store items in a dry, covered area to extend their lifespan.
Staying warm in winter doesn’t have to mean sky-high energy bills. Here’s how to heat your home efficiently while saving money.
Before winter hits, ensure your heating system is running efficiently by having it professionally serviced. A dirty or faulty furnace has to work harder, leading to higher bills and potential breakdowns.
Set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise in winter to push warm air down, reducing heating costs.
A programmable thermostat helps maintain consistent temperatures and reduces heating costs when you’re away or sleeping.
Winter storms can cause power outages, extreme cold, and hazardous travel conditions. Be prepared with these essential steps:
Keep a winter emergency kit with essentials like:
✔ Flashlights & batteries
✔ Bottled water & non-perishable food
✔ Extra blankets & warm clothing
✔ First aid kit & medications
✔ Backup power sources (like a generator)
👉 External Resource: The Red Cross offers a comprehensive winter storm preparedness guide.
Keep an emergency car kit with a shovel, blankets, jumper cables, and extra food and water in case you get stranded.
Proper winter property maintenance is key to avoiding costly repairs, staying safe, and protecting your home, lawn, and outdoor spaces from harsh winter conditions.
✔ Prevent frozen pipes and ice dams
✔ Maintain safe walkways and driveways
✔ Protect lawns, shrubs, and trees
✔ Optimize home heating and energy efficiency
✔ Be prepared for winter emergencies
Need help keeping your property in top shape this winter? RJ3 Property Maintenance offers expert snow removal, seasonal maintenance, and home care services to make winter easy.
📞 Call us today or schedule your winter maintenance service online!
