Timing Is Everything - Let's Get To It!
Winter’s icy grip is fast approaching, and for Colorado homeowners, this means it's time to ensure your home is ready to withstand the chill. With its breathtaking landscapes and snow-draped mountains, Colorado offers a picturesque winter wonderland—but it also demands diligent preparation to keep your home safe and energy-efficient from the elements. This guide will walk you through everything you need to know to winter-proof your home, ensuring warmth and peace of mind throughout the colder months.
Winterize & Protect Your Cooling System
If you’ve got an evaporative cooler at home, start by unplugging it from water and power, and drain any leftover water to avoid freezing or cracks. Cover it with a plastic tarp to keep the snow off, and place a piece of plywood on top to protect it from heavy snow fall.
Your AC condenser also needs protection from snow, ice, and debris. Use a breathable vinyl cover (these help prevent moisture and mold). Take a minute to clear away leaves and gunk so it’s nice and clean when spring rolls around. You can snag affordable covers online with just a quick search.
Protect Your Pipes From Freezing
Insulate your pipes in chilly spots like basements, attics, and garages with foam sleeves or heat tape.
Keep the water flowing by letting faucets drip slowly during those extreme cold snaps.
Open cabinet doors under sinks to help warm air circulate around the pipes.
Heading out of town? Set your thermostat to at least 55°F to keep things cozy while you’re away.
Home Insulation
Insulation, often looked over, but important to help maintain comfortable temperatures, and minimize energy use & cost.
Start by upgrading your attic insulation with materials like fiberglass or cellulose to lock in heat where it escapes most.
Next, focus on wall insulation to nix drafts. Don’t forget about the floors – especially if you’ve got a basement or crawl space letting cold air sneak in.
A solid thermal barrier around your home doesn’t just keep you comfy; it also saves you money on heating.
Mind The Gap, Please.
Sealing gaps and cracks is an easy, DIY home project.
Start by checking your windows and doors—drafts love to creep in here.
Add weatherstripping or caulking to block the cold air. For bigger gaps, a bit of caulking around window frames, will do the trick.
You can take it up a notch by installing storm doors and windows for extra insulation (bonus: they also reduce noise). Draft stoppers at the bottom of doors is another easy way to keep the heat in.
A few quick fixes, and you’ll feel the difference—warmer, cozier, and more energy-efficient.
Inspect & Service Your Heating System
Keeping your home warm in winter starts with a reliable heating system. Before the temperatures drop, book a professional inspection to make sure everything’s running smoothly and avoid unexpected breakdowns. Replace air filters regularly—clean filters mean better airflow, fresher indoor air, and less work on your system. A programmable thermostat is a an easy upgrade. If your system’s on its last legs, switching to a high-efficiency model might be your best bet for cutting costs and staying toasty.
Manage Your Roof
1. Inspect for Shingle Damage
Look for damaged or missing shingles.
Replace any problem shingles as needed to maintain roof integrity.
2. Clear Your Gutters
Remove debris like leaves and twigs.
Ensure proper drainage to avoid water buildup.
3. Manage Heavy Snow
Use a snow rake to safely remove excess snow from your roof.
Prevent structural risks caused by heavy snow accumulation.
4. Prevent Ice Dams
Clear snow before it melts and refreezes at the edges of the roof.
Proper insulation and ventilation can help minimize the risk.
Fireplace & Chimney Check
Schedule a professional chimney cleaning and inspection to remove creosote, check for damage, and install a cap to block debris and critters from gaining access. Use seasoned wood, confirm the damper works properly, keep flammable items away, and use a screen to catch sparks. With proper care, your fireplace becomes a safe, cozy spot for family gatherings.
Winterize Your Outdoor Space
To keep your lawn healthy through winter, aerate and fertilize in the fall. Aeration improves water and nutrient absorption, while fertilization strengthens grass for the colder months. Prepare your garden by trimming trees and shrubs to prevent snow damage, pruning for spring growth, and draining garden hoses. Turn off outdoor water valves & insulate fixtures. For sprinkler systems, remove remaining water to prevent freezing—use an air compressor or hire a professional. These steps will keep your lawn and outdoor spaces safe and well-maintained all winter
Stay Warm & Reach Out for Help - I Can Recommend Professionals
Getting your house ready for winter is a must—especially in Colorado, where winters don’t mess around. Proactive maintenance and routine service can make all the difference. Bonus tip? Connect with your local community for tips and resources! These easy steps will help keep your home warm, cozy, and safe all winter long. Stay snug!
Please reach out if you have questions, or need a professional to perform any of these services, do your research and due diligence before attempting any of these on your own. :)
Brandon Dazzo Realtor
303.526.8284
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