December is a magical time full of festive lights and peppermint mochas, but for Midwest homeowners, this month is crunch time for winter preparations. Between rollercoaster temps, holiday hosting, and surprise snowstorms, it's essential that your home is dialed in and ready to roll. Whether it's your first winter in Kansas City or your tenth, here's your no-fluff, easy-to-follow guide for December home maintenance:
1. Energy Efficiency & Insulation
Why: Cold weather reveals weak points in your home's insulation through common signs such as drafts, uneven heating, and rising energy bills. Sealing these gaps now can not only keep your house more comfortable, but it can also save you around 15% on heating costs this winter!
How to do it: Check your attic insulation; 12 to 15 inches is ideal for Midwest winters. You can add blown-in insulation yourself or hire a professional in Kansas City. Ensure attic vents are clear to prevent moisture buildup, and hang thermal curtains on doors or apply plastic window film.
In the basement, insulate rim joists with foam board or spray foam. Seal foundation cracks with hydraulic cement or exterior-grade caulk.
Pro Tip: If you're not using the fireplace, close the damper and consider using a chimney balloon to prevent heat loss up the flue.
2. Prevent Ice Dams & Icicles
Why: Midwest temperatures can fluctuate significantly throughout the winter. This inconsistency can cause snow to melt and refreeze at the edge of your roof, forming ice dams that prevent water from draining properly and cause it to back up under shingles and into your home.
How to do it: After snowfalls, use a roof rake to clear the first few feet of the roof edge. Keep attic spaces cold by ensuring proper insulation, and ensure your gutters are clear of any remaining leaves or debris. Knock down icicles when safe; they can not only block or damage gutters but can be dangerous and unpredictable for you and your guests.
Pro Tip: If you've experienced ice dam issues before, consider installing heat cables along the eaves or in problem gutters to melt channels through snow and ice.
3. Plumbing Winter Tricks
Why: Pipes along exterior walls or in unheated spaces can freeze and burst when temperatures drop, causing water damage inside your home that can drain your wallet and dampen the holiday spirit.
How to do it: Let faucets slowly drip on extremely cold nights, especially those connected to exposed pipes. Open cabinet doors under sinks on exterior walls to allow warm air to circulate, and don't set your thermostat below 55°F, even when away. Locate your main water shutoff so you can act quickly if needed.
Pro Tip: Keep your garage door closed to protect pipes, water heaters, and other plumbing in nearby uninsulated walls.
4. Check Sump Pump & Drainage in Thaws
Why: Midwestern winters aren't always frozen. Thaws and rain can cause water to pool around your foundation, and a working sump pump keeps your basement dry.
How to do it: During warm spells or after rain, listen to your sump pump to make sure it's cycling properly and test it by pouring water into the pit. Check discharge pipes outside for ice blockages, clear any yard or patio drains, and shovel snow away from the foundation where needed.
Pro Tip: Kansas City has experienced Christmas rainstorms that can cause flooding in basements. Don't let your guard down just because it's December.
5. Enjoy & Monitor
Why: You've put in the work, now enjoy your space! These quick, simple tasks will help you keep your home safe and warm as winter progresses.
How to do it: Keep space heaters at least three feet away from anything flammable, water your Christmas tree daily, and watch for condensation on windows. After major weather events, inspect your roof for damage, drafts, or leaks.
Pro Tip: Keep a note on your phone for any recurring winter issues (like drafty rooms or icing gutters). Set your phone to receive weather alerts to get ahead of storms and severe weather drops.
Bonus December To-Dos:
- Snowblower Prep & Snow Removal: Don't wait for a snowstorm; fuel, oil, and test your snowblower now. If shoveling, do it every 2–3 inches to save your back.
- Holiday Lights: Inspect all cords and bulbs for damaged wires or cracked bulbs. Use clips, not nails, to hang them, and wind lights around cardboard or a Pringles can for tangle-free takedown. LED lights are cooler and safer.
- Guest Prep: Freshen up guest rooms, lay out toiletries, and keep extra blankets handy. Stock up on essentials like toilet paper, ice melt, and backup snacks.
- Chimney Sweep: Dirty chimneys are a fire hazard. Book a cleaning now if you didn't complete this task in the fall, and always use a screen when the fireplace is lit.
- Ice Safety & Walkways: Secure railings, apply salt before snowfall, and trim overhanging limbs that could break under the weight of ice.
- Critter Check: Mice and raccoons will find the smallest crack to sneak in from the cold. Seal up any entry points now to keep out these unwelcome guests.
Final Thoughts
Midwest winters can be rough, but they don't have to wreck your home or your holiday spirit. A few smart moves now will keep your house warm, dry, and headache-free all winter. Check these off your list early, then go light that fire, sip something festive, and enjoy the season like a Midwest pro!
Are you looking for a list of Kansas City professionals to service your home this winter? Give me a call at 816-328-2887 for my list of trusted, local experts. I'm always happy to connect you with someone who will get the job done right!
