Winter Maintenance Tips for Your Home

January 20, 2025

Winter can be tough on your home, with freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and increased indoor activity putting extra stress on your living space. Proper maintenance not only protects your property but also ensures a safe, comfortable, and energy-efficient environment for your family. By following these essential winter upkeep tasks, you can avoid costly repairs, improve your home's efficiency, and enjoy peace of mind during the colder months.

A vacuum cleaner is cleaning a duct in a wooden floor.

Check Your Air Ducts

Removing covers and vacuuming dust from vents ensures clean air circulation and keeps your heating system running efficiently. This simple task helps improve air quality and reduces strain on your HVAC system.

Tip: Schedule this task at the start of winter to maintain efficient heating.

Clean the Bathroom Fan Grill

Dust and grime can accumulate on the grill, reducing its effectiveness in venting moisture from your bathroom. Regular cleaning prevents humidity build-up and potential mold growth.

Tip: Use a small vacuum attachment for better precision.

Inspect the Roof for Ice and Snow Build-up

Excessive snow or ice can cause structural damage or ice dams that lead to leaks. Proactively removing build-up helps prevent costly repairs and keeps your roof safe.

Tip: Use a roof rake to clear snow without climbing.

Clear Snow from Gas and Vent Areas

Blockages around gas meters, appliance vents, and basement windows can create safety hazards or reduce ventilation. Keeping these areas clear ensures proper functioning of home systems.

Tip: Regularly inspect these areas after heavy snowfall.


A close up of a paper filter sitting on top of a table.
A close up of a paper filter sitting on top of a table.

Customization and Design

One of the biggest advantages of a new home is the ability to customize. Many builders allow you to choose finishes like flooring, countertops, paint colors, and even floor plans. This provides the purchaser with the opportunity to make the home truly their own, reflecting  personal style and preferences.

Resale homes typically offer a more traditional layout, but they can still be renovated or remodeled to suit your preferences. However, major remodeling can be costly and time-consuming. If you're willing to invest in updates, you could transform the home into your dream space.

Energy Efficiency and Technology

New homes are built to meet or exceed modern energy efficiency standards, with better insulation, energy-efficient windows, and more eco-friendly appliances. This can lead to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint. Many new homes also come equipped with smart home technology, such as integrated lighting, security systems, and heating.

Older homes may not have the same energy efficiency as newer ones, and they could have outdated insulation or appliances. However, many homeowners choose to upgrade their homes with energy-efficient features, and you may be able to add these improvements yourself after the purchase.

Conclusion

The decision between a new home and a resale home depends largely on your preferences, budget, and priorities. A new home offers modern designs, fewer immediate repairs, and customization opportunities, but it can come with a higher price tag and may lack the character of an older home. On the other hand, a resale home might offer more value for your money upfront and a well-established community, but it may require more maintenance and upgrades.

Ultimately, both options can be great choices depending on your personal situation. Take the time to assess your long-term goals, lifestyle needs, and financial position to determine which option is the best fit for you.


More Blogs From Mikmada Homes

September 1, 2025
Labour Day is celebrated on the first Monday of September and is a tribute to the contributions and achievements of workers. Labour Day is not just a day off but a chance to recognize the hard-working efforts of those who built and continue to build our societies.  At Mikmada Homes , we believe in creating more than just homes; we build communities where families can make memories that last a lifetime. Whether you're spending the Labour Day weekend relaxing on your deck, exploring your neighborhood celebrations, or hosting friends and family, we hope your home is a place of joy and comfort.
August 25, 2025
Moving to a new home is an exciting chapter, but we know that for kids, starting at a new school can bring a mix of nerves and excitement.  Here are some practical ways to help your child feel confident and ready for their first day in a new school.
White butler's kitchen with dark countertops, a double sink, and cabinets. Hardwood floors and a window are visible in the background.
August 18, 2025
Dreaming about your future kitchen? Open-concept designs and quartz countertops often steal the spotlight when planning a new kitchen but there’s one feature that deserves more attention: the butler’s pantry. At Mikmada Homes, we’ve seen a growing number of families at Royal Valley Guelph , choose home designs that include a butler’s pantry. Traditionally located between the kitchen and dining room, a butler’s pantry acts as a secondary space for food prep, storage, and serving. Today, it’s a stylish and functional upgrade that adds convenience and organization to your daily routine.
A finished basement with a living area: sofa, armchair, TV, bar, and carpeted flooring.
August 12, 2025
When you’re building a new home, there’s one space that often gets overlooked but holds tons of potential. Don’t forget the basement! At Mikmada Homes, we know that a finished basement, while providing additional square footage, can enhance your family’s living area.
August 4, 2025
The Civic Holiday is celebrated on the first Monday in August and is a well-loved tradition that gives Canadians a summer break.
A woman is walking a dog on a leash in a field.
July 28, 2025
Considering a new build or pre-construction home in Guelph? Let us introduce you to one of the city’s most sought-after areas: Guelph’s south end. Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, convenient amenities, and beautiful green spaces, it’s easy to see why so many homeowners are making the move here.
July 21, 2025
A Practical Guide for Homebuyers Buying a pre-construction home is an exciting journey, especially when you're planning for your future in a growing community like Guelph or surrounding areas. At Mikmada Homes, we understand that financing a new build is one of the biggest steps in the process. Whether you’re a first-time buyer or a growing family, here’s what you need to know to finance a pre-construction home in Ontario with confidence.
Downtown Guelph with a cathedral in the background.
July 15, 2025
If you're considering a new build or pre-construction home in Ontario, Guelph should be at the top of your list, and not just because of its charming streets and thriving local culture. This vibrant city continues to rank as one of Ontario’s best places to buy a home, and for good reason.
July 8, 2025
Discovering a new home development is one of the most exciting steps in the homebuying journey—especially if you're considering a new build or pre-construction home.
June 30, 2025
On July 1 st , we celebrate the anniversary of the confederation of Canada in 1867. As a country we come together on this national holiday to honour Canada’s history and culture and celebrate being part of a beautiful and diverse country.
Show More