Preparing your home for winter doesn’t have to be complicated and can save a lot of hassle down the road. Many of the winterization tasks below can be inspected and/or completed on your own, but we always recommend calling in the professionals when needed!
Outside
When pipes freeze, they can burst and cause extensive damage and can be difficult to fix. To avoid this, start by draining exterior faucets and hoses, and blow out underground sprinkler lines. Next, identify any abandoned or problematic pipes, or those that are exposed to the cold and use heat tape or other insulation to provide an extra layer of prevention. Be sure you know where to shut off the main water supply in case of emergency to minimize damage.
The roof is a vital part of a home, and keeping it in good shape is crucial year-round - especially during winter. Look for warning signs like cracks, rust spots, missing or broken shingles, and moss or algae growth, as these can indicate potential problems. To prepare for the snow, consider investing in a roof shovel or heat cables to decrease the snow load on the roof and prevent dangerous snow slides. Clean out gutters and downspouts to remove built-up leaves and debris from fall which will help avoid costly repairs.
Windows are a crucial piece of a home’s design and function, brightening rooms with natural light and offering outside views. During the winter, drafts from windows, even when closed, can significantly impact interior temperatures. To help keep the warm air in the cold air out, inspect the seals around all windows for leaks. Small gaps can be sealed with weather stripping, caulk, shrink film, draft snakes, and even a coat of nail polish!. Upgrading from single pane windows to double pane is a valuable home renovation and will increase energy efficiency year round.
If your home has a fireplace, we recommend getting the chimney cleaned and inspected annually. This includes checking for blockages, ensuring the flue and damper are working properly, and inspecting screening and shut off valves. Stock up on firewood during the months leading up to winter and keep it in a dry location; ensure this area is not up against your home for fire prevention. Annual heating system maintenance, ideally done in the summer or fall, will ensure the system runs efficiently and prevent issues before freezing temps set it. Replace any air filters and remember to turn down the heat when you aren’t home, or install a smart home thermostat to do it for you.
Trimming tree branches is important so heavy snow or high winds don’t knock one down onto you, a vehicle, or your home. Overhanging branches touching the roof can cause leaks and/or damage to the roof or exterior.
Inside
Sealing leaks and/or cracks around windows, doors, and the basement/crawlspace will improve energy efficiency and minimize drafts. Some of the home inspectors we recommend have infrared cameras to pinpoint areas of heat loss so you know where to begin.
Winter in Colorado brings below freezing temperatures, snow storms, and breathtaking scenery. Tackling these tasks before winter arrives will help you fully enjoy the season and all of the fun winter activities! We have a great list of contractors, so please don’t hesitate to reach out if we can help connect you with someone, or for other winter tips and tricks.
