Pre-Winter Repairs Every Homeowner Should Do Before the Holidays
With colder weather and holiday gatherings approaching, December is the perfect time for East Bay homeowners to tackle essential pre-winter repairs. Whether you're preparing for hosting or simply want to protect your home from seasonal wear, a few key fixes can save you from costly problems down the road.
At Full Steam Ahead Construction & Plumbing, we’ve been helping homeowners get winter-ready — from deck repairs in Martinez to plumbing inspections across Contra Costa County. Here are the top repairs and maintenance tasks to prioritize this season.
1. Inspect and Seal Drafty Windows & Doors
Cold air creeps in faster than you think. If your home feels chilly even with the heater on, your windows or doors may be the culprit.
Quick fixes:
Add weatherstripping
Reseal gaps with caulk
Replace cracked or damaged seals
These simple steps boost comfort and cut down energy bills.
2. Check Your Roof and Gutters
Winter rain is no joke in the Bay Area. Clogged gutters or loose shingles can lead to leaks, water damage, and mold.
Be sure to:
✔ Clear leaves and debris
✔ Check for sagging areas
✔ Inspect flashing and shingles
✔ Ensure downspouts drain properly
If anything looks off, call a professional before the next storm hits.
3. Service Your Heating System
Your HVAC works hardest during the cold months. Before holiday guests arrive, make sure it's operating safely and efficiently.
Recommended steps:
Replace air filters
Clean vents
Schedule a system check-up
A quick tune-up can prevent breakdowns when you need heating the most.
4. Address Plumbing Concerns Early
Cold weather can worsen plumbing issues. Small leaks become bigger, and older pipes are more likely to clog in winter.
Don’t ignore signs like:
Slow drains
Low water pressure
Gurgling sounds
Water spots
A quick inspection can prevent costly emergencies during the holidays.
5. Repair or Reinforce Outdoor Structures
Decks, railings, fences, and patio covers need attention before winter moisture hits. We recently refreshed a deck in Martinez that had weakened boards—reinforcing it just in time for holiday gatherings.
Look for:
Loose boards
Rotting wood
Wobbly railings
Cracked posts
A reinforced deck means safer and more enjoyable outdoor spaces.
6. Test Exterior Lighting and Walkways
Shorter days mean more time in the dark. Make sure driveways, entryways, and paths are well-lit and safe.
This includes:
Replacing burnt bulbs
Fixing motion lights
Repairing uneven or cracked walkways
Perfect for holiday visitors coming and going in the evening.
Prep Now, Relax Later
Taking care of these pre-winter repairs now means a safer, cozier, and more enjoyable holiday season. Full Steam Ahead Construction & Plumbing is here to help East Bay homeowners tackle everything from structural fixes to plumbing tune-ups — with craftsmanship you can trust.
