As temperatures start to drop, preparing your home for winter can save you time, money, and stress once the cold really sets in. A little planning goes a long way toward keeping your home comfortable, safe, and energy-efficient all season long. Here are a few key steps to winter-proof your home before the chill arrives.
1. Seal Drafts and Insulate
- Cold air sneaking in through gaps and cracks can quickly drive up heating bills.
- Check doors and windows: Look for worn weatherstripping or gaps around frames. Replacing or adding weatherstripping is a quick, low-cost fix.
- Caulk cracks: Use exterior caulk to seal gaps in siding, around window frames, and where pipes enter your home.
Supplies you’ll need: weatherstripping, caulk, caulk gun, foam outlet gaskets – all available at Maxwell Hardware.
2. Protect Your Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and expensive) winter emergencies.
- Wrap exposed pipes: Use foam pipe insulation or heat tape for pipes in unheated areas like crawlspaces, garages, or basements.
- Disconnect hoses: Remove garden hoses and shut off outdoor faucets before the first freeze.
3. Check Your Heating System
Your furnace or heating unit works hardest in winter—make sure it’s ready.
- Replace filters: Dirty filters reduce efficiency and strain your system.
- Test early: Run your heater before the first cold snap to ensure everything’s working properly.
Stock up on space heaters or kerosene heaters: Great for emergency use or hard-to-heat rooms (always follow safety instructions).
4. Inspect the Roof and Gutters
Snow, ice, and winter rain can be tough on your roof.
- Clean gutters: Remove leaves and debris so melting snow can drain properly.
- Check shingles: Look for missing or damaged shingles that could lead to leaks.
- Install gutter guards: They help prevent blockages during wet, freezing weather.
5. Add Extra Warmth Inside
- Use draft stoppers: A rolled-up towel or store-bought draft stopper under doors can keep rooms warmer.
- Layer with rugs and curtains: Heavy curtains and area rugs help hold heat in.
- Portable insulation kits: Clear plastic window insulation kits can add a barrier against cold air.
6. Be Ready for Winter Storms
A little preparedness goes a long way when the power goes out.
- Stock up on flashlights, lanterns, and batteries.
- Keep a supply of ice melt, snow shovels, and gloves handy.
- Have an emergency kit with bottled water, blankets, and non-perishable food.
Final Thoughts
Winterizing your home is all about prevention. A few hours of preparation now can protect your home from costly repairs and make your family more comfortable all season long.
At Maxwell Hardware in Delhi, LA, we carry everything you need for winter prep—from weatherstripping and insulation to heaters, tools, and emergency supplies. Stop by today and let our team help you get ready before the cold hits!
