Winter Is on the Way! Time To Get Your Sprinklers Blown Out and Winterize Your Lawn

Masters Real Estate • October 12, 2022


As winter approaches, it's time to get prepared for the season. There are three things that are on the top of the to do list, arguably the most important things you need to do is winterize your sprinkler system. If not done properly you will find yourself with a maintenance emergency and an expensive repair bill when freezing temperatures come to Colorado. Another thing to consider is keeping branches away from your home and car during Spring where we receive moisture heavy seasonal snow that can damage anything or cause injury as they fall off. And lastly, if you like your healthy lawn, its aeration/fertilization time.


Get your sprinklers blown out for the season

Winter is the time to get your sprinklers blown out. The winterizing process helps ensure that your irrigation equipment will last longer and will not burst during the coldest months of the year. If water freezes in an un-winterized system, it expands and bursts water lines, sprinkler heads, backflow preventers and the plumbing inside your home causing significant, traumatic and costly damage.

To winterize your sprinkler system:

  • Turn off the water lines
  • Blow out all hoses so they are not full of water
  • Close the solenoids or turn off your system.
  • Turn off outside faucets (check for leaks). 
  • Make sure your sprinkler system has been unplugged or disengaged. 


Remove tree branches that might break off with heavy snow or ice

If you have trees on your property, especially large ones that may need to be removed in the future, it is important to do the following:

  • Remove dead or diseased branches. These branches can fall and cause damage if they are near power lines or on top of your car.
  • Remove branches that are too close to the house. This helps protect against wind coming from different directions and knocking down some of these trees onto your home. If there is a large tree that has grown too tall and its branches are overhanging your driveway, this could also cause problems with vehicles driving underneath it or kids playing around it during winter months when snow falls heavily overnight causing heavy snowfalls while temperatures drop quickly during nights when people go outside before sunrise during those cold mornings before going off to work or school!


Get your lawn aerated

Your lawn has had a long year of getting watered, being pressurized and packed down by lawn mowing, now its time to the alleviate the pressure. Aerating is a great thing for the lawn. It pokes holes throughout the lawn allowing for water, air and nutrients to get in deep to the roots. The holes are 2 or 3 inches into the ground, not too deep for your sprinkler lines to get punctured, but deep enough to help with new roots.

After aerating you will want to put down a winter fertilizer, the fertilizer will get deep into the soil allowing for the nutrients to be delivered right to the source. Making sure you have a good fertilizer is also important. There are several good brands out there that you can find at the local home hardware store.


If you need help managing your investment property, please let us know through our contact form or by calling 303-930-5125. 


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By Masters Real Estate December 18, 2025
Owning property in Colorado comes with incredible perks—stunning views, four distinct seasons, and strong rental demand. But our unique climate also brings specific maintenance challenges that property owners can’t afford to ignore. From heavy snowfall and freeze-thaw cycles to intense sun exposure and wildfire risk, proactive maintenance is essential to protecting your investment. As a Colorado-based property management company, we help owners stay ahead of costly repairs by focusing on the maintenance items that matter most. Here are the key areas every Colorado property owner should be thinking about year-round.  1. Roof and Gutter Maintenance (Especially After Winter) Colorado weather can be tough on roofs. Snow accumulation, ice dams, hail, and high winds all take their toll. What to prioritize: Annual roof inspections, ideally in spring Checking for missing or damaged shingles after storms Clearing gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water intrusion Ensuring proper attic ventilation to reduce moisture buildup Neglecting roof and gutter maintenance can lead to leaks, mold, and structural damage—issues that are far more expensive than preventative care. 2. Freeze Protection for Plumbing Systems Freezing temperatures are a reality across much of Colorado, and frozen pipes are one of the most common (and damaging) winter emergencies. Key preventative steps: Insulating exposed pipes, especially in crawl spaces and garages Disconnecting and winterizing outdoor hoses and irrigation lines Ensuring tenants know how to maintain minimum indoor temperatures Locating and clearly labeling the main water shutoff valve A single frozen pipe can cause thousands of dollars in water damage, making winter plumbing prep a top priority. 3. HVAC Servicing for All Four Seasons Colorado properties rely heavily on both heating and cooling systems throughout the year. Best practices include: Furnace servicing before winter begins Air conditioning inspections before summer Regular filter changes to improve efficiency and air quality Checking carbon monoxide detectors and ventilation systems Routine HVAC maintenance not only extends equipment life but also reduces energy costs and emergency repair calls. 4. Exterior Maintenance and Sun Exposure Colorado’s high altitude means stronger UV exposure, which can accelerate wear on exterior materials. Pay close attention to: Fading or peeling paint and stain Cracked or warped siding Deteriorating caulking around windows and doors Decks and fences exposed to direct sunlight Maintaining exterior surfaces protects your property from moisture intrusion and preserves curb appeal—especially important for rental homes. 5. Snow Removal and Ice Management Plans Snow and ice aren’t just inconvenient—they’re liability risks. Property owners should ensure: Clear plans for timely snow removal Safe de-icing practices that won’t damage concrete or landscaping Roof snow load monitoring during heavy winters Clear tenant communication about responsibilities Slip-and-fall claims are one of the most common winter liabilities, and preparation is key to minimizing risk. 6. Foundation and Drainage Awareness Colorado’s freeze-thaw cycles and clay-heavy soils can impact foundations over time. Maintenance items to watch: Cracks in foundations or basement walls Proper grading that directs water away from the home Functional sump pumps where applicable Downspouts extending away from the foundation Early detection of drainage or foundation issues can prevent long-term structural problems. 7. Wildfire and Landscaping Considerations In many parts of Colorado, wildfire mitigation is an essential part of property maintenance. Important steps include: Maintaining defensible space around structures Removing dead vegetation and debris Trimming trees away from roofs and siding Choosing fire-resistant landscaping when possible These efforts not only protect the property but may also be required for insurance coverage in certain areas. 8. Routine Inspections and Preventive Maintenance The most successful property owners take a proactive—not reactive—approach. Regular inspections help identify: Small issues before they become major repairs Lease compliance and tenant-caused damage Safety concerns and code violations Long-term capital improvement needs A consistent maintenance schedule is one of the best ways to protect your property’s value and reduce unexpected expenses. How Professional Property Management Helps Staying on top of Colorado-specific maintenance can be overwhelming, especially for out-of-state or busy owners. A professional property management company coordinates seasonal maintenance, responds to weather-related issues, and ensures your property remains compliant, safe, and well cared for year-round. Proactive maintenance isn’t just about avoiding problems—it’s about protecting your investment, your tenants, and your peace of mind. If you’d like help managing maintenance for your Colorado property, working with a local property management team can make all the difference.
By Masters Real Estate July 1, 2025
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By Masters Real Estate May 19, 2025
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