Winterizing Your Home: Lessons Learned the Hard Way

Winter is here, and with it comes the annual checklist of tasks to keep your home safe and efficient during the colder months. As temperatures in Tulsa hit 12 degrees recently, I was reminded of the importance of winterizing. Picture this: it’s 10 PM, and I’m outside in my socks checking to ensure my water spigot’s hose is disconnected. Why? Because a frozen pipe today could mean a flooded house tomorrow.

Disconnecting Hoses: A Small Task with Big Consequences

One of the most common yet overlooked winterization tasks is disconnecting hoses from your outdoor water spigots. It seems simple, but leaving a hose connected can trap water in the pipe. When temperatures drop, that water freezes, expands, and eventually causes the pipe to burst—often inside your wall.

Here’s the kicker: you won’t know there’s a problem until spring when you turn on the hose for the first time. That’s exactly what happened to Kirsten, my co-host, who came home from vacation to find her bedroom flooded. The culprit? A frozen pipe from the previous winter.

The solution is straightforward: disconnect your hoses before the first freeze and consider using styrofoam covers for added protection. If you suspect a freeze might have already caused damage, turn on the spigot, listen for unusual sounds like dripping or hissing inside the house, and investigate immediately.

Concrete Care: Protecting Your Driveways and Sidewalks

Winter isn’t just tough on plumbing—it’s brutal on concrete too. In Oklahoma, the cycle of warm days and freezing nights causes moisture in cracks to expand, leading to potholes and damage. The key is to seal cracks before winter hits.

Be cautious with de-icers, as some can damage the finish of your concrete. While safety comes first—slips and falls can be more costly than concrete repairs—choose products that are less likely to cause long-term harm.

Windows and Energy Efficiency

If you’ve ever noticed ice forming on the inside of your windows during a freeze, it’s likely a sign of poor insulation or aging windows. Modern double-pane windows with gas-filled layers and improved seals can dramatically reduce heat loss and prevent this issue.

Replacing windows can be costly, but it’s an investment in energy efficiency and comfort. If replacing isn’t an option, focus on sealing drafts around windows and doors. A small crack or gap can be equivalent to leaving a door open all year long in terms of energy loss.

Gutters and Roof Maintenance

Your gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from water damage. Leaves and debris can clog them, causing water to back up and freeze. This adds weight to your gutters and roof, potentially leading to damage.

Cleaning your gutters before winter is essential, and keeping water away from your foundation is equally important. Poor drainage can lead to cracks and foundation issues over time.

Final Thoughts: Preventing Emergencies

Winterizing your home isn’t just about preventing damage—it’s about avoiding emergencies that disrupt your life. Whether it’s a frozen pipe, a flooded bedroom, or damaged concrete, these issues are almost always more costly and time-consuming to fix after the fact.

The best advice? Be proactive. Inspect your home for potential problem areas and address them early. From disconnecting hoses to sealing cracks, these small tasks can save you thousands of dollars and countless headaches.

If you’d like more tips on maintaining your home and navigating the real estate process, subscribe to the Baskin Report. It’s filled with practical advice, market updates, and insights to help you make informed decisions about your property.

Stay warm, stay prepared, and as always, if you have questions, don’t hesitate to reach out at DarrylBaskin.com. Let’s make sure this winter is one of comfort and peace of mind for your home.

At the Baskin Real Estate Specialists, we are here to ensure that your real estate needs are met with care, professionalism, and expertise.

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About Darryl Baskin and Baskin Real Estate Specialists

With over 30 years of experience in real estate, Darryl Baskin is a trusted expert serving Tulsa and beyond. As the leader of the Baskin Real Estate Specialists at eXp Realty, Darryl has built a team dedicated to providing exceptional service, innovative solutions, and unmatched market expertise. The Baskin Real Estate Specialists are known for their personalized approach, whether assisting with traditional sales, investment properties, or complex divorce real estate transactions.

As a Certified Divorce Real Estate Expert (CDRE), Darryl specializes in navigating the intricate intersection of family law and real estate, ensuring that clients protect their equity and achieve the best possible outcomes during challenging transitions. His commitment to professionalism, integrity, and client success has made him a sought-after leader in the industry.

To learn more about Baskin Real Estate Specialists and how they can assist with your real estate needs, visit darrylbaskin.com.

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