How do I winterize my home?
Indoor Preparations
Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and attics with foam sleeves or heat tape. Seal drafts around windows and doors with weatherstripping or caulk. Have your furnace or boiler serviced annually by a professional; replace filters monthly during heavy use. If you have a fireplace, have the chimney cleaned and close the damper when not in use.
Set your thermostat to at least 55°F (13°C) even when away to prevent pipes from freezing. Know where your main water shut-off valve is and tag it. For extra protection, drain outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems.
Outdoor Preparations
Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams. Trim tree branches that could fall on your roof under snow load. Seal cracks in driveways and walkways. Install storm windows or cover windows with plastic film kits. Bring in or cover outdoor furniture and grills.
If you have a sump pump, test it and consider a battery backup. Disconnect garden hoses and store them. Drain and store lawn mowers and other power equipment.
- Insulate pipes and seal air leaks.
- Service heating system and replace filters.
- Clean gutters and trim branches.
- Drain outdoor faucets and sprinklers.
- Set thermostat to 55°F minimum.
Budget and Timing
Winterizing costs vary widely. Basic DIY supplies like caulk and foam insulation run $50–$150. Professional furnace servicing is typically $80–$200. If you hire a handyman for multiple tasks, expect $200–$500. Start in early fall; waiting until the first freeze can lead to burst pipes and costly repairs.
Common mistakes
- Forgetting to drain outdoor faucets; trapped water expands and bursts the pipe.
- Closing off rooms completely; without heat, pipes in those areas can freeze.
- Skipping furnace service; a breakdown during a cold snap is expensive and dangerous.
