Winterizing Your Home in a Virginia Winter: What Richmond Homeowners Need to Know

by Jason Burke

Virginia winters can be unpredictable, swinging from mild to icy in a matter of days. Taking a few smart steps now can save you money, prevent costly repairs, and keep your home comfortable all season long.

Below are essential winterizing tips for homeowners, plus special guidance for anyone with a vacant or rental property.

1. Protect Your Plumbing from Freezing

Cold snaps can sneak up on us, and frozen pipes are one of the most expensive winter disasters. Reduce the risk by:

Draining hoses, outdoor faucets, sprinklers, and irrigation lines
Turning off water supplies to outdoor spigots
Insulating exposed pipes in garages, basements, and crawl spaces
Letting faucets drip during extreme cold

A few simple steps can prevent a burst pipe—and the thousands of dollars in damage that come with it.

2. Maximize Your Heating Efficiency

Your HVAC works harder in winter, so help it run as efficiently as possible:

Reverse ceiling fans to run clockwise, pushing warm air down
Change HVAC filters for better airflow and lower energy bills
Seal gaps around doors and windows to block drafts
Use curtains and rugs as extra insulation
Open curtains during sunny days to naturally warm your home

These changes may seem small, but they make a noticeable difference in comfort and heating costs.

3. Create a Healthy, Comfortable Indoor Environment

Winter air inside Virginia homes can become dry fast. To protect your space:

Run humidifiers to add moisture back into the air
Monitor indoor humidity levels, ideally between 30–50%

Your skin, sinuses, and hardwood floors will thank you.

4. Prepare Your Exterior for Snow and Ice

Even light Richmond snow can lead to big problems if your home isn’t ready:

Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams
Trim branches that could break under the weight of snow
Check your roof for loose shingles
Clear walkways early to avoid dangerous refreezing

Small maintenance now prevents slipping hazards and long-term structural issues later.

5. Winter Checklist for Vacant or Rental Properties

If you manage a rental property or currently have a vacant home on the market, winter prep is critical:

Maintain the heat at no lower than 65°F to prevent frozen pipes
Ensure insulation and sealing are solid, especially in attics and crawl spaces
Keep all systems functional, especially if showings are scheduled
Check regularly for drafts, leaks, or signs of moisture

A well-maintained property protects your investment and makes winter showings more comfortable for buyers.

Final Thoughts

Today’s snowfall in central Virginia is more than just a pretty sight — it’s a timely reminder to give your home some winter care. Whether you’re planning to stay put, preparing to list your home, or managing a rental, winterizing protects your investment and keeps you comfortable through Virginia’s coldest months.

If you ever need advice on home maintenance, preparing for a sale, or navigating the winter real estate market, I’m here to help. Stay warm, stay safe, and enjoy the RVA snow! ❄️🏡

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Jason Burke headshot Let's talk! I’ve proudly served the Greater Richmond area as a full-time Realtor for more than 19 years, and I’ve called Virginia home for over 25.