Making the Holiday Home List and Checking It Twice

The holiday season is almost here! That means hot cocoa, sparkling lights, and maybe even a little friendly neighborhood decorating competition. But before you flip the switch on your holiday cheer, take a minute to make sure your home is safe, cozy, and ready for all the festivities.

At Wolfe Construction, we believe holiday prep isn’t just about wrapping gifts. It’s about wrapping your home in care. So, here is your Holiday Home Checklist to keep spirits high and hazards low:

Warm and Cozy, Not Smoky

  • Fireplace Cleaning: Ensure your first fire is warm and crackling, not smoky and sputtering.

  • Chimney Sweep Appointment: Santa is not the only one who needs a clear path down the chimney. A professional sweep can help prevent chimney fires caused by creosote buildup.

Deck the Halls (Safely!)

  • Holiday Lights Check-up: Toss any frayed cords or broken bulbs. Outdoor lights should be weatherproof, not wishful thinking.

  • Decorations Inspection: A little wobble now could mean a big crash later.

  • Ladder Safety 101: Sturdy step stools and ladders are your friends; kitchen chairs are not. Trust us. A holiday ER visit is definitely a gift that keeps on giving, but not in a good way! 

  • Brick Decorating Tip: Drill into the mortar, not the brick. It is the right way, the safe way, and your house will thank you.

Light the Way

  • Entryways, Paths and Driveways: Make sure they are well-lit for guests, deliveries, and late-night cookie runs. Bonus: better lighting adds extra curb appeal for those holiday photos.

Check Your Safety Squad

  • Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Test them, swap the batteries, and breathe easy. Between candles, cooking and fireplaces, this is non-negotiable.

Get Ahead of Winter Weather

  • Clean Gutters: Leaves + rain = clogs. Clogs + cold snap = ice dams. Nobody wants that holiday surprise.

  • Quick Roof Peek: Missing shingles or weak spots? Fix now, not after the snow or winter freeze.

  • Seal Drafts: Weatherstripping keeps your heat in, Jack Frost out, and your energy bill a little friendlier.

Extra Credit Holiday Prep

  • Don’t overload outlets (Clark Griswold, we are looking at you).

  • Keep space heaters at least three feet from anything flammable.

  • Stock up on ice melt and dust off the snow shovel. Yes, even in the Carolinas, a little ice can cause big headaches.

Cheers to a Safe & Bright Season

With a little planning, your home will be merry, bright, and safe enough for even the jolliest guest.

From all of us at Wolfe Construction, here’s to a safe, happy, and bright holiday season!

Liz Rodgers