Winter in the Midwest is no joke… and your home deserves to be ready for it! Before the snow starts flying, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the winter ahead. A little preparation now can prevent big (and chilly) surprises later.
At Jordahl Custom Homes, we care about helping you protect your investment and keep your family comfortable all season long. Whether you’re a longtime homeowner or settling into a new Jordahl home, our Winter Prep Checklist will help you make sure nothing gets missed.
Prepare Your Home’s Heating System
Your furnace or heating system will be working its hardest over the next few months, so making sure it’s ready is essential.
- Schedule a Service: Have your heating system inspected by a professional to ensure it’s clean, safe, and running efficiently.
- Replace Air Filters: Dirty filters restrict airflow and make your system work harder, increasing energy costs. Replace them every one to three months.
- Inspect Vents and Registers: Make sure vents are open, unblocked, and free of dust or debris so warm air can circulate properly.
- Test Your Thermostat: Check that your thermostat is accurate and functioning. If you don’t have one already, consider upgrading to a programmable or smart thermostat for better energy management.
Seal Drafts and Improve Insulation
Even small gaps around doors and windows can let cold air in and push heating bills up.
- Weatherstrip and Caulk: Use weatherstripping around doors and windows and apply caulk where you find cracks or gaps.
- Check Attic Insulation: Warm air rises, so an under-insulated attic can lead to significant heat loss. Add insulation if needed to keep your home warmer and more efficient.
- Install Door Sweeps: These are inexpensive and effective for blocking drafts that sneak in under exterior doors.
Taking time to seal leaks will help your home maintain consistent warmth throughout the season.
Protect Your Plumbing
Frozen pipes are a common, costly issue during winter. Preventing them is much easier than repairing them.
- Insulate Exposed Pipes: Wrap pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages with insulation sleeves or heat tapes.
- Disconnect Outdoor Hoses: Drain and store garden hoses, and shut off and drain exterior faucets to prevent freezing.
- Open Cabinet Doors: On extremely cold nights, open cabinet doors under sinks near exterior walls to allow warm air to circulate around the pipes.
- Let Faucets Drip: A slow trickle of water helps prevent pressure from building up inside pipes that could freeze.
Prepare Your Roof and Gutter
Snow and ice buildup can lead to roof leaks, ice dams, and other winter damage.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Remove leaves and debris to allow melting snow to drain properly.
- Inspect the Roof: Look for missing or damaged shingles and have repairs made before the first major snow.
- Check Attic Ventilation: Proper ventilation helps prevent ice dams by keeping the roof surface cooler.
- Add Snow Guards if Needed: Snow guards can prevent large sheets of snow from sliding off the roof and damaging gutters or landscaping.
Inspect Windows and Doors
Your windows and door play a major role in keeping warm air inside.
- Check for Condensation: Moisture between window panes could signal a broken seal, which may need repair or replacement.
- Use Insulated Curtains or Window Film: These inexpensive options add an extra layer of protection against the cold.
- Lubricate Door Locks and Hinges: Winter moisture can cause metal parts to stick or freeze, so a quick lubrication can help them work smoothly all season.
Test Detectors and Prepare for Emergencies
Heating systems, fireplaces, and space heaters can all produce carbon monoxide if they’re not functioning properly.
- Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors: Replace batteries and make sure alarms are working properly.
- Check Fire Extinguishers: Keep one easily accessible on each floor of your home.
- Stock Winter Essentials: Story salt or sand for icy walkways and ensure your snow removal tools are ready before the storm hits.
Built for the Midwest. Ready for Every Season.
When it comes to winter prep, a few simple steps can go a long way toward keeping your home safe, cozy, and efficient.
If you have questions about maintaining your Jordahl home or are looking to build a new one that’s ready for every season, contact us today. Our team is here to help you protect your investment and enjoy the best of Midwest living, no matter the weather.