Real Estate
If you split time between the valley and somewhere warmer, winter prep is not optional.
A few hours of prevention now can save you from burst pipes, ice dams, or hidden mold when you are away.
1. Plumbing shut-offs and water system basics
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Label and test the whole-home main shut-off. Verify it actually closes fully.
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Identify and tag zone shut-offs for kitchen, baths, laundry, exterior bibs, humidifier, and fridge line.
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Drain and blow out exterior hose bibs. Install freezeproof sillcocks if you still have standard valves.
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Set water heater to vacation mode or turn it off if the house will be vacant. Consider a mixing valve check while you are at it.
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Add water leak sensors under sinks, at the water heater pan, in mechanical rooms, and near the fridge.
DRS note: If you want a quick shut-off map and a 10-point leak sensor plan, DRS can handle it and document everything for your caretaker.
2. Heat on, air moving, and minimum setpoints
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Keep heat at 55–60°F if vacant. Colder than that risks cold pockets in cabinets and crawlspaces.
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Open sink bases on exterior walls. Pull traps forward if needed to improve warm airflow.
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Run ceiling fans on low, reverse direction to lift cold air.
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If you have hydronic heat, bleed air from radiators and verify glycol levels where applicable.
DRS note: DRS teams see most winter losses in rooms where airflow is blocked. We can walk the home and flag risk zones before temps drop.
3. Roof check and ice dam prevention
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Inspect shingles, metal seams, and flashing at chimneys and valleys. Repair loose or missing sections.
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Clear all roof debris that can trap snow and water.
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Verify heat tape works and is on a dedicated GFCI circuit. Replace failed sections now.
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Seal attic bypasses and add baffles to keep soffits clear. Good ventilation helps prevent ice dams.
DRS note: After storms we respond to attic wet spots from ice dams. DRS can schedule pre-season roof and attic moisture checks with photos for your records.
4. Gutters, downspouts, and ground drainage
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Clean gutters and confirm outlets are not pinched.
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Extend downspouts at least 6 feet away from the foundation with rigid extensions.
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Grade soil and shovel paths so snowmelt flows away from the house, not into window wells.
5. Exterior faucets, irrigation, and hot tubs
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Winterize irrigation with a proper blowout. Mark backflow preventers and insulate them.
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Install insulated covers on hose bibs and remove hoses.
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For hot tubs, choose one: keep it running with a new cover seal and a fresh filter or drain it completely and lock out power.
6. Windows, doors, and insulation touchups
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Add weatherstripping to drafty doors. Adjust strikes and hinges so doors latch tight.
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Replace failed window seals and add interior film kits or cellular shades where needed.
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Insulate under sink cavities on exterior walls and any exposed pipes in garages or crawlspaces.
DRS note: Air leaks lead to cold spots and condensation. DRS can thermal-scan problem areas and recommend a simple fix list.
7. Humidity control and mold avoidance
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Target indoor humidity at 30–40 percent in winter.
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Run bath fans on timers or install a humidity sensor switch.
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Empty and clean dehumidifiers. If you leave one running, set it to drain, not to a full bucket.
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Lift rugs in basements and store cardboard off concrete.
8. Power, alarms, and remote monitoring
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Replace batteries in smoke and CO detectors. Test all alarms.
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Install smart water valves and leak sensors that notify your phone.
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Put a temperature and power loss sensor on the main level.
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Give a neighbor or caretaker keypad access and written instructions.
9. Fireplace, flues, and fuel storage
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Sweep chimneys and verify caps are secure.
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Check gas log pilot assemblies and replace old CO detectors near sleeping areas.
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Store firewood off the ground and away from siding to discourage pests.
10. Garage, crawlspace, and mechanical rooms
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Insulate exposed water lines and hose bib manifolds.
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Add a small space heater with tip-over safety in utility areas if history shows they run cold.
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Verify floor drains are clear and traps have water with a splash of RV antifreeze.
11. Before-you-leave short checklist
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Main heat set to 55–60°F
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Water main off or smart valve armed
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Ice maker off and fridge line closed
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Interior doors open for airflow
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Cabinet doors open on exterior walls
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Leak, temp, and power sensors tested
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Gutters and downspouts clear
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Caretaker has access and contact list
Real Estate
The DRS Difference: Winter-Ready Peace of Mind
When temperatures drop in the Vail Valley, small oversights can lead to big repair bills. That’s why second homeowners across Singletree, Cordillera, and East Vail rely on DRS for professional winter prep and prevention.
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Certified technicians familiar with mountain plumbing and heating systems
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Same-day reports with clear, actionable next steps
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Trusted by property managers and caretakers throughout Eagle County
How to Get Started
Book a pre-winter home check with DRS. We’ll inspect your plumbing, roof, and moisture-prone areas—then provide a detailed action plan before the first big storm hits.
Protect your investment before the snow flies—contact DRS today for your winter readiness inspection.