Spring on LBI: What to Check When You Return After a Harsh Winter

After a long, cold, and windy winter on Long Beach Island, many homeowners are finally making their way back down. Whether your home sat vacant all season or was only used occasionally, that first visit back is an important one.

Between freezing temperatures, flood events, strong coastal winds, and constant exposure to salt air, winter can be tough on homes here. Some issues are obvious right away, others are not.

Before getting settled in for the season, it is worth taking some time to go through a full check of the property.

Start with the water system

If your water was shut off for the winter, do not rush turning it back on. Turn it on slowly and stay in the house while the system pressurizes.

Walk through and check all sinks, toilets, showers, and outdoor spigots. Keep an eye out for leaks, especially in areas where pipes are more exposed.

If you had your pipes professionally winterized or blown out, have your plumber come back to de-winterize the system and turn the water on. They can make sure everything is running properly and catch any issues before they become a much bigger problem.

Even a small crack from a freeze can cause significant damage if it goes unnoticed.

Look for signs of hidden damage

Not all issues are immediately obvious. As you walk through the home, keep an eye out for subtle warning signs like water stains, warped flooring, musty smells, or unusually low water pressure.

These can all point to a pipe that may have frozen or partially failed during the winter.

Check the exterior of the home

This winter brought plenty of wind, and that can take a toll on the outside of a property.

Walk the perimeter and look for any missing shingles, loose siding, cracked trim, breakaway walls, or shifting railings and decking. Catching these early can prevent further damage as we move into the spring season.

Clear vents and outdoor areas

Snow, ice, and debris can build up around important parts of the home and cause damage.

Make sure dryer vents, exhaust vents, HVAC units, and meters are clear and accessible. This helps everything run properly and safely as you get the house back up and running.

Check gutters and drainage

Gutters and downspouts often collect debris over the winter, which can lead to water backing up where it should not.

Make sure gutters are clear, securely attached, and draining away from the house. Also check any ground drains or sump systems to make sure they are not blocked.

With spring rain on the way, proper drainage is important.

Walk the property and landscaping

Winter conditions on LBI can be especially tough on landscaping. Wind, salt, and freezing temperatures can all cause damage.

Take a look at the condition of plants, check for erosion or shifting sand, and inspect walkways and pavers. This is also a good time to start thinking about any improvements you want to make before the summer season.

Check your dock and bulkhead

If your property is on the bay, lagoon, or waterfront, it is important to inspect your dock and bulkhead after the winter.

Ice movement, wind, and fluctuating tides can cause shifting, cracking, or loosening of materials. Take a look at the condition of the bulkhead, check for any separation or bowing, and make sure your dock boards are secure and stable.

It is also a good idea to inspect pilings, ladders, and any hardware for signs of wear or corrosion. Addressing these issues early can help avoid more significant repairs, especially as boat traffic and usage pick up heading into the summer. It has been a long and cold winter, so people will be itching to get out on the water!

Test systems and appliances

Before you or any renters start using the home regularly, make sure everything is working as it should.

Run the HVAC system, check the hot water heater, test appliances, and replace batteries in smoke and carbon monoxide detectors.

It is much easier to handle any issues now than in the middle of July.

Check for pests and moisture

Homes that sit vacant can sometimes attract unwanted activity. Look for any signs of rodents or insects, and check crawl spaces or lower levels for moisture. Catching these early can save you from bigger problems down the line.

Getting ahead of the season

Taking the time to go through this checklist now can help avoid costly repairs and disruptions later, especially if you plan to rent your home or use it frequently this summer.

At the same time, every home is different, and depending on how your property is set up, there may be additional items worth checking that are not on this list. When in doubt, it is always better to take a closer look or have a local professional stop by for a quick inspection. Catching small issues early is almost always easier and less expensive than dealing with them later in the season.

If you ever need recommendations for local contractors, plumbers, or service providers, feel free to reach out. I am always happy to help point you in the right direction.