❄ How to Prepare Your Home for Winter: Essential Tips for Cold Weather Protection

As temperatures start to drop across the St. Louis area, it’s time to get your home ready for winter. Preparing your home now can help prevent costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and keep your family comfortable all season long. Here’s a helpful checklist to make sure your home is winter-ready.

1. Protect Your Pipes

Frozen pipes are one of the most common and expensive winter problems for homeowners.

• Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, attics, and garages.
  
  
• Disconnect and drain outdoor hoses, and shut off exterior faucets.
  
  
• On very cold nights, let faucets drip slightly to keep water moving through the lines.
  
  

2. Check Your Heating System

Before the cold really sets in, make sure your furnace or boiler is in top shape.

• Schedule a professional HVAC inspection and replace filters as recommended.
  
  
• Check that all vents and radiators are open and unobstructed.
  
  
• Consider installing a smart thermostat to help manage energy use efficiently.
  
  

3. Seal Drafts and Insulate

Even small drafts can make a big difference in your heating bill.

• Check for gaps around doors and windows, and seal them with weatherstripping or caulk.
  
  
• Add insulation to your attic or crawl spaces if needed — it’s one of the best ways to keep heat inside.
  
  
• Use door sweeps to stop cold air from sneaking in under doors.
  
  

4. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Snow, ice, and wind can take a toll on your roof.

• Check for missing or damaged shingles and have them replaced before heavy snow hits.
  
  
• Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water damage.
  
  
• Make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation.
  
  

5. Prepare Your Fireplace

If you have a wood-burning fireplace, now’s the time to get it ready.

• Have your chimney inspected and cleaned to prevent fire hazards.
  
  
• Stock up on dry firewood and store it in a covered area.
  
  
• Make sure your damper opens and closes properly.
  
  

6. Winterize Outdoor Spaces

Outdoor maintenance can protect your home’s exterior and prevent headaches in the spring.

• Store patio furniture and cover your grill.
  
  
• Drain sprinkler systems and fountains.
  
  
• Trim tree branches near your home to avoid breakage from ice or snow.
  
  

7. Safety First

• Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly.
  
  
• Restock your emergency kit with essentials like batteries, blankets, and flashlights.
  
  
• Keep sidewalk salt or sand on hand for icy walkways.
  
  

A Cozy, Worry-Free Winter Starts Now

Taking time to prepare your home for the cold season can save you from costly repairs and make winter more enjoyable. Whether you’re staying put for the holidays or planning to sell, a well-maintained home shows care and attention — qualities that buyers love to see.

If you’d like recommendations for trusted local service providers to help with any of these steps, our team is happy to connect you with reliable professionals in the area.