As the dark winter approaches, it’s time to think about how well your home is prepared for the colder months. Properly winterproofing your home can help keep it warm and cozy, reduce energy bills, and prevent costly damage caused by freezing temperatures.
The good news is that you don’t need to wait for snow or icy winds to start, with a little time and effort now, you can make your home comfortable and efficient all season long.
Seal Up Drafts
Cold wintery breezes and unnoticed drafts can make your home feel chillier than it should, even with the heat cranked up. Inspect your windows and doors for gaps or cracks where air might be sneaking in.
Use weatherstripping to seal around doors and windows. Foam tape or rubber gaskets can make a big difference in keeping the cold air out. For larger gaps, consider using caulk to create a tighter seal. Don’t forget about your attic and basement—these areas are common culprits for heat loss.
Insulate for Efficiency
Proper insulation is one of the best ways to keep your home warm and your heating costs down. If you notice that certain areas of your home are always colder than others, you might need to add or update insulation.
Focus on your attic, walls, and basement first. Insulating these spaces can prevent heat from escaping and keep the cold from creeping in. Don’t forget to check your pipes as well—pipe insulation can help protect against freezing, which could lead to expensive repairs.
Check Your Heating System
Your heating system is the backbone of a warm home during the bitter winter months. Before temperatures drop too low, make sure your furnace, boiler, or heat pump is in good working order.
You should schedule a professional inspection to ensure it’s running efficiently and safely. Replace filters if needed, and clean any vents or ducts to improve airflow.
If you use a fireplace, have your chimney cleaned and inspected to avoid buildup that could pose a fire hazard.
Protect Your Pipes
Freezing temperatures and lack of maintenance can cause pipes to burst, leading to serious water damage. Taking steps to protect your pipes now can save you a lot of trouble later.
Insulate exposed pipes in your attic, basement, or crawl spaces. On particularly cold nights, leave cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate. If you’re going away for an extended period, let your faucets drip slightly and keep your thermostat set to at least 55 degrees to prevent freezing.
Prepare for Snow and Ice
Snow and ice can create hazards for your home if you’re not prepared. Check your roof for any loose or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks. Clean out your gutters to prevent ice dams, which can cause water to back up and damage your roof.
You can also store snow removal tools like shovels and ice melt ready before the first snowfall. Clearing walkways and driveways promptly helps reduce the risk of slips and falls. If you have trees near your home, trim any branches that could break under heavy snow or ice.
Test Your Home’s Seals
To ensure all your winterproofing efforts are working, do a final check for air leaks. On a windy day, walk around your home and feel for drafts near windows, doors, and other openings. Use a candle or incense stick to detect air movement—if the flame flickers or the smoke moves, you’ve found a leak. Address any remaining gaps or cracks to keep your home as energy-efficient and comfortable as possible.