Denver, Colorado – After repeated rounds of winter cold and snow already tested homes across Colorado, many homeowners are finding that overlooked winter prep issues don’t need historic storms to cause damage. With February still bringing sharp temperature swings and periodic snow, the remaining weeks of winter leave little room for homes that weren’t fully prepared earlier in the season.
As temperatures continue to fluctuate between overnight freezes and sudden daytime warmups, homes stressed during earlier cold snaps remain vulnerable. Small maintenance gaps missed in December and January can worsen quickly, turning minor issues into costly repairs if they aren’t addressed now.
Frozen pipes remain one of the most common winter problems statewide, especially in basements, crawl spaces, garages, and exterior walls. Homes along the Front Range are particularly susceptible during rapid temperature drops, when pipes can freeze even after mild afternoons.
Blocked exterior vents are another frequently overlooked issue. Dryer, bathroom, and furnace vents can become clogged with snow, ice, or debris, trapping moisture and restricting airflow. These blockages can force exhaust back into the home, leading to moisture damage and safety concerns during prolonged cold.
Ice dams continue to cause damage across northern and central Colorado. Snow melts on warmer roof sections and refreezes along colder edges, allowing water to back up beneath shingles and damage ceilings, insulation, and interior walls. Older homes in Denver and nearby communities are especially vulnerable during freeze-thaw cycles.
Frozen sump pump discharge lines also create problems during extended cold. When outlet pipes freeze solid, melting snow has nowhere to drain, increasing the risk of basement flooding during brief warmups.
Rounding out the top five is heating equipment that has been running hard all winter. Furnaces and boilers with deferred maintenance can struggle as cold lingers, leaving homes without reliable heat during the most demanding stretch of the season.
Homeowners are encouraged to insulate exposed plumbing, keep vents clear of snow and ice, manage roof snow safely, and ensure heating systems are operating efficiently. While winter has already tested Colorado homes, lingering February cold means preparation still matters.
