8 Winter Maintenance Tips for Homes in Chicago Suburbs

Jan 1, 2025

Winter in the Chicago suburbs is downright unforgiving. But your home? That’s your fortress, and it deserves the best care to withstand the season’s worst. Whether you’re living in a custom-built beauty or planning to build one, this winter maintenance guide will help keep your home in shape and your stress levels low.

Protect Your Pipes from Freezing

When water freezes, it expands, putting intense pressure on your plumbing. A burst pipe can flood your home, ruin your belongings, or leave you without water when you need it.

Steer clear of this winter plumbing problem:

  • Open cabinets under sinks to let warm air circulate around pipes.
  • Let faucets drip during extreme cold to keep water flowing.
  • Insulate exposed pipes in cold areas like basements, garages, and crawl spaces.

At Overstreet Builders, our homes are thoughtfully designed to minimize these risks, with features like high-quality insulation and expertly planned plumbing. But a little extra home maintenance goes a long way in keeping your home safe and stress-free during winter.

Check and Clean Your Gutters

Clogged gutters can cause ice dams, where melting snow refreezes along the roof’s edge. These icy barriers block water from draining correctly, forcing it under shingles and into your walls and ceilings. This could mean unexpected leaks, water issues, and a whole lot of headaches.

Mid-winter is the perfect time to double-check that your gutters are clear, directing water away from your foundation. Use a roof rake to safely remove snow buildup near gutters.

Monitor Your HVAC System

Your heating system is pulling double duty during winter, so give it a little love:

  • Replace air filters to keep the system running efficiently.
  • Get an inspection to tackle minor concerns before they become expensive repairs.

Homes from Overstreet Builders come equipped with energy-efficient HVAC systems, but even the best setups appreciate routine care.

Test Emergency Systems

Winter means cranking up the heat and spending more time indoors, so it’s the perfect time to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Smoke detectors are a must for every home, even if you’re running an electric furnace — wiring issues or overheating can still happen.

Got gas-powered appliances like a water heater, stove, or fireplace? Then carbon monoxide detectors are non-negotiable, too. Swap out the batteries, test the alarms, and make sure everything is functional. 

Check Windows and Doors for Drafts

Drafty windows and doors waste energy, drive up your heating bill, and make your home less cozy. To fix the problem, start by running your hand along the edges of windows and doors to feel for cold air sneaking in.

Simple solutions include:

  • Add self-adhesive weatherstripping around doors and windows to seal gaps. 
  • Use a high-quality caulk to fill cracks or gaps around window frames and doorways.

For older homes, upgrading to double- or triple-pane, energy-efficient windows can make a world of difference. These improvements block drafts and increase overall energy efficiency, saving you money in the long run.

Overstreet’s luxury homes are built with top-tier materials and airtight construction to keep the drafts — and the Chicago winter — where they belong: outside.

Maintain Your Sump Pump

A functioning sump pump is critical during winter thaws to prevent basement flooding. Test your pump, check the discharge line for blockages, and ensure the backup system is ready to go. A little attention now saves a lot of stress later.

Care for Outdoor Features

Your driveway, deck, and patio also need winter care to stay in great shape:

  • Use pet-safe, concrete-friendly de-icers to protect surfaces and plants.
  • Clear snow regularly to prevent cracks or stains, using a plastic snow pusher to avoid scratches.
  • Sweep snow off wood decks to prevent warping or mildew.

Custom home finishes deserve custom care, and these small steps will keep your outdoor spaces pristine and ready for spring.

Monitor Humidity Levels

Chicago winters can leave your home feeling as dry as a desert. A humidifier helps protect hardwood floors, furniture, and even your skin from the effects of low humidity. Plus, it makes your home more comfortable overall.

Ready to Build the Perfect Winter Fortress?

Winter maintenance is easier when your home is built for it. With over 60 years of experience, we specialize in crafting homes that combine durability, style, and comfort — perfect for life in the Chicago suburbs. If you’re ready to start planning your dream home, Overstreet Builders is here to help. Contact us today to learn more about our custom home designs and two new Signature Neighborhoods coming to Naperville!