Although Santa Fe winters are mild compared to some, our temperatures can still fall low enough to require home preparation. We assure you, an ounce of prevention is worth more than a pound of cure.
Whether you live here full time or have a vacation home in Santa Fe, ensuring your property is ready for the colder months not only helps protect your investment but also ensures your comfort and peace of mind. Here are some tips for getting your Santa Fe property ready for winter.
1. Seal Gaps and Insulate Windows
One of the most important steps in preparing your home is to ensure that it is properly insulated. Check windows and doors for any gaps where cold air might sneak in. If you find any, use weatherstripping or caulking to seal them. Many homes in Santa Fe feature beautiful historic windows or large picture windows that offer stunning views, but these can also be a source of heat loss. Consider adding thermal curtains for added insulation. These simple solutions can make a significant difference in keeping your home warm, reducing your energy bills and contributing to a more sustainable future.
2. Prepare Your Heating System
Santa Fe's heating needs vary based on the architecture of the home, but many properties rely on radiant heating, mini splits, wood stoves, or traditional forced air systems. It is optimal to have your heating system professionally serviced in the fall. Clean your ducts, replace air filters, and ensure that your furnace or boiler is running efficiently. If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, ensure the chimney is clean and free of obstructions. It’s essential to have these systems checked before you need them so you’re not left in the cold.
3. Protect Pipes from Freezing
Homes in Santa Fe often feature unique architectural elements, such as adobe walls and exposed beams, which can sometimes make it harder to insulate certain areas. Pay extra attention to outdoor pipes, especially those in unheated garages or crawl spaces. Insulate exposed pipes with foam or use pipe heating cables in particularly vulnerable areas. If you plan to be away for an extended period, consider draining your pipes to prevent any damage from freezing.
For inside pipes, make sure to leave faucets dripping when temperatures dip below freezing, and you can also leave cabinet doors open overnight to help keep pipes warm.
It is also important to remove hoses from hose bibs, and you can easily install a hose bib cover for added protection.
4. Maintain Your Roof and Canales
Winter storms in Santa Fe can bring heavy snow and rain, which means that roof and canale maintenance is critical. Clear any debris from canales and, if you have them, gutters and downspouts, to ensure that water can flow freely. This will help prevent ice dams, which can cause significant damage to your roof and walls. If your home has a flat roof, be sure to clear it of snow after a storm, as the weight can accumulate quickly and cause structural issues.
5. Check Insulation and Weatherproof Your Doors
Proper insulation isn’t just about windows—make sure your attic and crawl spaces are properly insulated. Insulation keeps heat inside the home and helps maintain a consistent temperature throughout the colder months. Don’t forget about your exterior doors. In addition to sealing gaps around windows, ensure that doors are weatherproofed with good-quality door sweeps and weatherstripping. A well-insulated home means a more comfortable living space and lower heating costs.
6. Prepare for Snow Removal
Though snow in Santa Fe can be unpredictable, it's wise to be prepared for the possibility. Ensure you have the tools and equipment needed for snow removal, such as a snow shovel, ice melt, or even a snow blower if you have a large driveway or path. For more luxury properties, especially those with expansive grounds, hiring a professional snow removal service might be worth considering. Nothing says luxury like having your property cleared of snow while you sip your hot cocoa inside.
7. Exterior Care: Landscaping and Stucco
Santa Fe homes often have unique exterior features like adobe stucco, which can be sensitive to harsh weather conditions. Be sure to check the condition of your exterior walls. If the stucco has cracks, now is the time to patch them up to prevent moisture from seeping in during the winter. Additionally, make sure to trim back any overhanging tree branches that could break under the weight of snow or ice, potentially damaging your roof or windows.
8. Bring Firewood Inside
For those with fireplaces, make sure to bring some firewood inside before any storms arrive so that you are ready to get cozy by the fire.
9. Prepare for Winter Entertaining
For those who love to entertain, winter can offer an intimate atmosphere for gatherings. Make sure your patio heaters, fire pits, or outdoor fireplaces are in good working order. Santa Fe has a remarkable ability to provide beautiful, sunny days even in winter, so having your outdoor space ready for an evening gathering is essential. Adding a few throw blankets or heated outdoor seating options can also elevate your guests' experience when you host.
10. Secure Your Property While You’re Away
If you plan to leave Santa Fe for an extended period, take steps to secure your home during your absence. Ask a trusted neighbor or friend to keep an eye on your property. Consider installing smart home technology, like thermostats, lights, and security cameras, which allow you to monitor your home remotely. For second homeowners, it’s always a good idea to set up a system for having someone check in regularly, ensuring your property is in top condition when you return.
11. Enjoy the Season!
Finally, embrace the beauty and serenity of Santa Fe in the winter. The crisp air, the quiet of the desert landscape, and the breathtaking sunsets all make this season a magical time in this region. As a luxury homeowner, it’s not just about the preparation; it’s about creating a sanctuary that allows you to enjoy the season in style and comfort.
Preparing your Santa Fe home for winter is all about anticipating the elements and taking the steps to ensure comfort and safety. By being proactive, you’ll not only protect your investment but also enhance your living experience. And of course, if you have any questions or would like more personalized advice, please reach out, we would be happy to help you navigate the winter months and make the most of this beautiful season.
Here’s to a warm, worry-free winter in your beautiful Santa Fe home!
