Preparing Your Vermont Vacation Home for Winter

A Vermont vacation home needs preparation before winter settles in. Freezing temperatures and heavy snow put stress on the house, while an empty property can allow small problems to go unnoticed until they become expensive repairs.

For owners who live out of state, preparing a vacation home for winter takes some planning. The goal is to have the house ready before the first serious cold arrives and have someone nearby who can check on it throughout the season.

Sugarhouse Property provides year-round property maintenance services for Vermont vacation homes. We help owners prepare their properties for winter and keep an eye on them while they're away.

Start With the Plumbing

Frozen pipes are one of the most expensive problems a vacant home can experience during winter. If the house will remain unoccupied for an extended period, the plumbing system needs to be prepared for freezing temperatures.

Some homeowners shut off the water and drain the plumbing system before leaving. Others keep the heating system running throughout the winter. The right approach depends on the house and its plumbing and heating systems.

Before winter arrives, check the water shutoff and make sure it is accessible. The property should also be inspected for existing leaks before the house is closed up for the season.

Make Sure the Heat Is Reliable

A reliable heating system is essential during a Vermont winter.

Have the heating system serviced before temperatures drop. Replace the filter and make sure the thermostat is working properly. If the property has more than one heating system, each one should be checked before the home is left unattended.

A heating failure during a cold spell creates a serious risk for the property. Pipes can freeze and interior temperatures can drop quickly.

Regular property checks provide an additional layer of protection. A local property manager can check the temperature and confirm that the heating system is operating properly. Problems discovered early are much easier to address.

Check the Roof and Gutters

Fall is the right time to inspect the roof and clean the gutters.

Leaves and debris prevent gutters from draining properly. Once temperatures drop, trapped water freezes and adds another problem to the roof drainage system. Damaged shingles and flashing also need attention before snow covers the roof.

A roof inspection before winter gives you an opportunity to address problems while the roof remains accessible.

Walk Around the Property

Take a close look at the exterior before winter weather arrives. Loose siding, damaged trim, broken windows, and unsecured doors all need attention before the property is left for the season.

Look at the areas around the house as well. Dead or damaged branches near the roof create a risk during heavy snow and wind. Outdoor furniture and seasonal equipment should be stored or secured. Taking care of these issues in the fall makes the property easier to manage throughout the winter.

Have a Snow Removal Plan

Snow removal should be arranged before the first major storm. A vacation home with an inaccessible driveway is difficult to reach. Regular property inspections are more difficult because snow also accumulates around entrances and walkways.

A local snow removal service keeps the driveway and access areas clear throughout the season. For homeowners who live outside Vermont, having someone already responsible for the property eliminates the need to arrange service from a distance after every storm. Sugarhouse Property provides snow removal and seasonal property services for residential properties throughout our service area.

Plan for Winter Storms

Even a well-prepared house remains vulnerable to severe weather. Heavy snow and ice put additional weight on the roof. Strong winds damage shingles and exterior materials. Falling branches can damage the house or block access to the property.

Regular inspections help identify storm damage quickly. A property check after a major storm gives the homeowner an opportunity to address a problem before it becomes more extensive.

Make Sure Someone Can Access the Property

If you won't be visiting regularly during the winter, someone needs reliable access to the house. Whoever checks on the property should know where the water shutoff and electrical panel are located. They should also have the information needed to contact you if an urgent problem develops.

It helps to keep a record of the home's major systems and equipment. Knowing where the heating system, water heater, generator, and other important equipment are located makes an emergency much easier to manage.