How to Maintain a Short-Term Rental in Summit and Park County, Colorado: A Seasonal Cleaning & Maintenance Guide

Owning a short-term rental in Park and Summit County is different than owning one in Denver.
Higher elevation. Heavier snow loads. Dry air. Mud season. Wildlife. Rural utilities.

If you don’t plan for the seasons, maintenance issues build quietly until they become expensive.

Here’s what smart Park and Summit County STR owners stay ahead of.

1. Winter: Snow, Salt & Moisture Management

Common Problems

• Ice melt residue damaging flooring
• Wet boots causing warping or mildew
• Snow load stress on decks and roofs
• Frozen pipes in unmonitored properties

Smart Solutions

• Entry mat systems + routine floor rinsing
• Moisture checks under sinks and around windows
• Snow removal coordination
• Turnover inspections that include pipe and thermostat checks

2. Spring: Mud Season & Drainage Issues

Common Problems

• Mud tracked through entire homes
• Drainage pooling near foundations
• Siding splatter damage
• Crawlspace moisture increase

Smart Solutions

• Deep post-winter cleaning resets
• Exterior checks during turnovers
• Monitoring high-traffic entry points
• Preventative floor sealing

3. Summer: Dust, Fire Risk & High Guest Turnover

Common Problems

• Fine dust infiltration
• Increased turnover volume
• Outdoor debris on decks and patios
• Fire restriction compliance awareness

Smart Solutions

• Air vent cleaning
• Consistent linen quality control
• Deck and exterior wipe-downs
• Fire-safe grill and ash disposal checks

4. Fall: Pre-Winter Prep

Common Problems

• Clogged gutters
• Drafty windows
• Fireplace soot buildup
• HVAC filter neglect

Smart Solutions

• Deep seasonal cleaning before ski season
• Fireplace area detailing
• Filter replacement reminders
• Exterior debris removal

Your Reviews Reflect Your Maintenance System

Guests may not see snow load stress or drainage issues.
But they absolutely notice warped floors, musty smells, dust buildup, and inconsistent linen quality.

Your cleaning team is part of your revenue strategy.

A proactive seasonal cleaning plan helps you:

• Avoid emergency maintenance calls
• Reduce long-term repair costs
• Maintain five-star cleanliness standards
• Protect occupancy during peak seasons
• Preserve your asset in a high-demand market

If you treat cleaning as a reset between guests, you will always be catching up.

If you treat cleaning as preventative maintenance, your property stays ahead.