Before Winter Creeps In 👻: Basement Maintenance Reminders

The basement may be home to monsters and ghouls, especially around Halloween time. But fear not and don’t forget: when the temperatures start to dip and the days get shorter, most homeowners focus on tending their living spaces but there’s one area that often gets overlooked before winter sets in: the basement.

Your basement quietly does a lot for your home: housing key systems, storing your stuff, and (in many homes) keeping moisture and cold air at bay. A little maintenance now can prevent leaks, musty odors, or even costly damage later. Here are the top things to check before the chill really sets in.

Check for Cracks and Seal Them Walk around the perimeter of your basement and inspect the walls and floors for cracks. Even small ones can let in moisture as the ground freezes and thaws through winter. Seal minor cracks with waterproof masonry sealant, and if you spot larger ones, it’s worth calling a professional before they turn into something scarier (and more expensive).

Test Your Sump Pump If your home has a sump pump, give it a quick test by pouring a bucket of water into the pit. It should turn on automatically and drain the water right away. A working sump pump is your first line of defense against winter meltwater and heavy rain, and you most certainly don’t want to discover it’s broken during a storm.

Inspect Basement Windows and Wells Basement windows are notorious for letting in drafts and moisture. Check that they’re sealed tightly and the weatherstripping isn’t cracked or missing. Clear any debris from window wells, and consider adding covers to keep snow and leaves from piling up.

Clean and Service Your Dehumidifier Even though winter air tends to be drier, basements can still collect humidity, especially in mild, wet spells. Give your dehumidifier a good cleaning before storing or using it for the season. If it’s running through winter, check the drain line and empty the tank regularly to keep it operating efficiently.

Check for Insulation Gaps Feel along the rim joists (where the basement walls meet the main floor). If it feels noticeably cold, add insulation or foam board to keep heat from escaping. It’s a small project that pays off in lower heating bills and a more comfortable first floor.

Inspect Plumbing and Protect Pipes Basement pipes are often the most exposed to freezing temps. Wrap any uninsulated pipes with foam sleeves, especially near exterior walls or unheated crawl spaces. While you’re at it, check for small leaks or corrosion that could worsen when temperatures drop.

Clear the Floor Drains Basement floor drains can collect dust, pet hair, or debris over time. Pour a little water down to make sure it drains properly and the trap seal isn’t dry (which can also let sewer gas escape). Keeping them clear helps prevent flooding if a plumbing issue or leak arises.

Declutter and Elevate Stored Items If you use your basement for storage, take a few minutes to tidy up and lift items off the floor, especially cardboard boxes or anything that could be damaged by unexpected water. Plastic bins on shelves are your best bet for keeping your belongings safe and dry.