Homeowner 101: Preparing Your Home For Winter

Winter weather can be tough on your home, especially when temperatures drop and storms move in. Taking a few proactive steps now can help protect your property, keep your family safe, and prevent costly damage later. Here are some important ways to prepare your home for the winter season.

Insulate Pipes and Cover Outdoor Faucets

One of the most common winter-related home insurance claims involves frozen or burst pipes. Insulating exposed pipes in crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls can help prevent freezing. Outdoor faucets should be covered with insulated faucet covers, and hoses should be disconnected and drained. These simple steps can save you from water damage that can be expensive and disruptive. Allowing your faucets to drip slowly overnight is also a great way to avoid frozen pipes whenever temperatures will be below freezing.

Keep Your Home Heated to at Least 65 Degrees

Even if you are away from home, it’s important to keep your thermostat set to a minimum of 65 degrees during cold weather. Lower temperatures increase the risk of frozen pipes and other cold-related damage. Maintaining consistent heat helps protect your plumbing system and keeps your home comfortable and safe throughout the winter months.

Schedule Seasonal Home Safety Inspections

Winter is a great time to have routine inspections completed on key systems in your home. HVAC systems should be serviced to ensure they are operating efficiently and safely. Electrical systems should be checked for potential hazards, especially if you are using space heaters or additional lighting. Roof inspections can identify loose shingles or vulnerable areas that could lead to leaks once snow or ice accumulates. Staying ahead of these issues can help prevent emergency repairs during the coldest months.

Keep Sidewalks and Driveways Clear of Snow and Ice

Snow and ice buildup on walkways and driveways can create serious safety hazards. Regularly clearing these areas reduces the risk of slips and falls for your family, guests, and delivery drivers. From an insurance standpoint, maintaining clear and safe pathways can also help reduce liability risks associated with winter weather.

How Greenbridge Insurance Can Help

Preparing your home for winter goes hand in hand with having the right homeowners insurance coverage. At Greenbridge Insurance, our team can help you understand your policy, review your coverage limits, and ensure you’re properly protected against winter-related risks. From burst pipes to storm damage, we’ll help you explore coverage options that fit your home, lifestyle, and budget.

If you’re unsure whether your current policy offers enough protection, Greenbridge Insurance is here to help you make informed decisions with confidence.

📞 Contact Greenbridge Insurance today to learn more about homeowners insurance options and keep your home protected all winter long.(731) 772-5700