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Real Estate Tips
Thursday, January 30, 2025

Winterize Your Home with This Comprehensive 31-Point Checklist

A man with gray hair uses a caulking gun to seal the window frame's edge as part of his home winterization checklist. Wearing a white t-shirt, he appears focused on his work. To the left, a hexagonal logo featuring "ez" stands out against a blue background.

When the forecast says, “Let it snow!” you’ll only be able to cozy up by the fireplace with a warm mug of hot chocolate in one hand and a good book in the other if your home is ready to brave the elements. 

Winter can be beautiful, but it also brings challenges no homeowner can afford to ignore. Winterizing your house isn’t just about keeping it warm; it’s about protecting your most valuable investment from needing expensive repairs, keeping energy costs under control, and ensuring your family’s safety during the coldest months. In sum, it is peace of mind.

If you own a house in Chicago, Denver, Minneapolis, or similar cities where freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and ice storms are the norm, winter-proofing your home is a must. This detailed 31-point checklist will guide you through the essential tasks to quickly prepare your home for the season so you can truly “Let it snow.”

Exterior Home Winterization

  • uncheckedVisually Inspect Your Roof

Grab a ladder and visually inspect your roof to make sure it is in shape to face snow and winds. Look for sagging and uneven areas, debris, and, most of all, loose, damaged, or missing shingles or tiles. 

Missing, loose, or cracked shingles or tiles may allow water to seep into your roof. When that water freezes, it expands, creating even more issues. Therefore, we highly recommend that you invest in replacing them before the winter arrives. This will save you headaches in the long term. 

  • uncheckedInspect The Chimney

While you’re on the roof, check your chimney for loose bricks, and make sure the vent looks clear and debris-free. Also, inspect if there is any soot you need to clean up. The Chimney Safety Institute of America advises scheduling a chimney sweep when soot deposits in the flue reach one-eighth of an inch. 

Also, ensure that the flashing around your chimney is adequately sealed. Properly maintained flashing protects vulnerable areas of your roof from leaks.

A gutter is shown with icicles hanging from it against a bright blue sky, highlighting the need to winterize your home. Snow covers the roof, and bare branches are visible. A teal and gray geometric design appears on the left with a hexagon containing the letters "ez.
  • uncheckedClean Gutter Blockage

Inspect your gutters and ensure they’re free of leaves and debris. No one wants clogged gutters to cause costly problems, such as basement water leakage, fascia and soffits issues, and foundation damage. 

Also, if accumulated water in your clogged gutters freezes, the gutters can separate from the home. For a better winterized house, install leaf guards, particularly in tree-dense areas. 

  • uncheckedClean Your Dryer’s Roof Vent

If there’s a dryer vent in your roof, clear it out from lint buildup, this will ensure proper airflow and reduce the risk of fire hazards during winter.. A clogged vent affects your dryer’s efficiency and may also make it harder to dry clothes in colder weather.

A simple visual inspection and cleaning ahead of time can save you the hassle—and danger—of climbing up in freezing temperatures later. While at it, check the vent cover to ensure it’s secure and free from cracks or damage that could let in cold air or water. 

  • uncheckedSeal Cracks in Exterior Walls, Windows, and Doors

Walk around your home and carefully check walls, windows, doors, and spots where different materials meet, like siding and trim. Look for visible cracks, gaps, or signs of wear, especially near corners, edges, and exposed areas.

What you want to do first is to remove dirt, debris, or old caulk so the sealant adheres properly. Use weatherproof silicone or acrylic caulk for small gaps, applying a smooth bead and pressing it into place. For larger cracks, expanding spray foam insulation works great. Avoid overfilling. 

A person prepares to winterize their home by covering an outdoor air conditioning unit with a gray tarp next to a beige house. Fallen leaves scatter the ground, while on the right, a hexagonal design displays the letters "ez.
  • uncheckedBring in All Outdoor Furniture, Rugs and Planters

Store furniture, rugs, and planters in a safe spot before winter hits, like a shed, garage, or another covered area of your home. Freezing temperatures, snow, and ice can damage these items, causing them to crack, warp, or discolor. 

Smaller items like cushions and decorative pieces are just as vulnerable. If storage space is limited, consider using weatherproof covers for larger pieces that must remain outside, ensuring they’re tightly secured against winter winds.

  • uncheckedWinterproof The Deck or Patio

Prepare your deck and patio for the colder season, starting with a thorough cleaning. Sweep away leaves, dirt, and debris, then scrub the surfaces with a mild cleaner to prevent mold or mildew from forming during the colder months. For better results, apply a water-repellent sealant to protect the wood or composite materials from moisture damage caused by snow and ice.

Be on the lookout for loose boards, cracked tiles, or other damage, and plan those small repairs before winter weather worsens the issue. 

A person mowing a lawn with a push mower in a backyard, surrounded by a wooden fence and trees. The image features a blue graphic overlay with a honeycomb pattern and a hexagonal logo with the letters "ez," offering tips on how to winterize your house effectively.
  • uncheckedPrepare Lawnmower for Storage

Before storing your lawnmower, run it dry or add a fuel stabilizer to prevent the gas from damaging the engine during winter. But first, clean it up by removing grass clippings and debris from the blades and underside.

Change the oil, replace the spark plug, and check the air filter for added protection. Store the lawnmower in a dry, covered space, like the garage, to ensure it’s ready to go when spring arrives.

  • uncheckedRemove Ailing Tree Branches

If you reside in a zone with harsh winters, check all the trees around your home and look for weak branches that must be removed before weather conditions worsen. Loosen branches can be dangerous during winter storms, potentially falling and causing damage to fences, vehicles, or your roofs or windows.

Prune the problem yourself, but talk with your landscaper if the branch is big. Healthy trees will fare better through the season and protect your property from other risks.

  • uncheckedWinterize Outdoor Appliances

Homeowners with outdoor kitchens or grilling areas should pay attention to their exterior appliances before winter. Unplug and clean your appliances, like grills and stoves. Remove food residue and cover them with weatherproof covers to shield them from moisture and freezing temperatures.

Find out which appliances can be used safely in winter and which ones need to be drained of fuel. Also, disconnect propane tanks and store them in a cool, ventilated area away from direct sunlight. 

A snow-covered wooden fence with a wavy design stands amid a snowy landscape, perfect for illustrating a winterize home checklist. Bare trees grace the background, while on the right side, a blue hexagonal logo with the letters "ez" adds a splash of modernity to this serene scene.
  • uncheckedInspect and Secure Fences

Walk along your property and check fences for loose boards, rusted nails, or leaning sections. Winter winds and heavy snow can worsen existing issues, leading to costly repairs.

Reinforce weak spots and tighten screws or nails where necessary. Also, apply a weather-resistant wood treatment to wooden fences and rust-preventing spray if your fence is made of metal. 

  • uncheckedMulch Leaves Back Into The Lawn

Instead of raking and bagging leaves, as you would typically do in the fall, mulch them into your lawn using a mulching mower. This process returns valuable nutrients to the soil and helps the grass stay healthy through winter.

Make sure the leaves are dry before mulching, and avoid creating large clumps, as these can smother the grass on your lawn. Mulched leaves act as a natural fertilizer, setting your lawn up for success in the spring.

  • uncheckedProtect Sprinklers and Hoses

Disconnect and drain all hoses, then store them indoors to prevent freezing and cracking, a common occurrence with water supplies during harsh winters. For sprinkler systems, blow out any remaining water using an air compressor. You can also hire a professional to do it.

Shut off the water supply to outdoor sprinkler lines and insulate any exposed pipes to prevent freezing.

Wearing a purple long-sleeve shirt, a person places a terra cotta cover over an outdoor faucet on the white brick wall, showcasing an essential step in the winterize house checklist. Green leaves add a splash of nature, while an "ez" hexagonal logo sits to the left.
  • uncheckedDrain and Turn Off Outdoor Water Faucets

Locate your outdoor faucet’s shutoff valve go ahead and turn it off, and open the faucet to drain any remaining water. This is key to winterizing any home since it prevents freezing and bursting pipes when temperatures drop.

Install insulated faucet covers and wrap any exposed pipes nearby for added protection. Even frost-free faucets can benefit from this extra layer of love.

  • uncheckedAssess The Outdoor Lighting

Check all outdoor light fixtures to ensure they’re working properly. Replace burnt-out bulbs and consider upgrading to energy-efficient LEDs for better performance in colder weather.

If your home is in a location that experiences heavy snow or ice, ensure your lighting is positioned to illuminate pathways, driveways, and entryways, reducing the risk of accidents and falls during dark winter evenings.

Interior House Winterization 

  • uncheckedReverse The Ceiling Fans

Switch your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise at a low speed during the cold months. This pushes warm air trapped near the ceiling back down into the living space, improving comfort and reducing your electric bill quite a bit.

This minor adjustment can make a noticeable difference in maintaining even temperatures throughout your home. Here are some quick instructions on how to reverse the ceiling fans in your home: 

  1. Start by turning off the fan to avoid any accidents.
  2. Find the direction switch, typically located on the fan’s motor housing.
  3. Flip the switch to set the fan to rotate clockwise.
  4. Turn the fan back on and adjust it to a low speed for the best heat circulation during winter.
A man in a maroon shirt is installing an air filter into an air vent, preparing to winterize his home. He holds the vent cover in one hand and the filter in the other. The image includes a hexagon graphic with the letters "ez" on the left side.
  • uncheckedChange the Air Filter

Replace your HVAC’s air filter before the heating season begins. A clean filter will help the system run more efficiently when you need it the most, maintaining good airflow and improving indoor air quality.

Check the filter monthly during winter and replace it as needed to keep your home warm and your energy bills in check.

  • uncheckedInstall or Replace Weatherstripping Around Doors and Windows.

Inspect doors and windows for gaps or worn weatherstripping that could let that cold air in. Replace old weatherstripping with new, adhesive-backed strips to seal drafts effectively, and you’re set. This simple fix keeps your home warmer, reduces strain on your heating system, and lowers energy bills.

  • uncheckedInsulate Attic and Basement Spaces 

Staying warm is every homeowner’s top priority during winter, but insulation does more than just keep the cold out—it also helps lower heating costs. Add or replace insulation in your attic and basement to prevent heat loss. 

Focus on sealing any gaps or cracks where warm air might escape, particularly around pipes, vents, and wiring. Depending on the size of your home and its insulation condition, you may need to call an expert for the job. 

  • uncheckedStore Fragile Decorations and Valuables

Store delicate outdoor decorations in a safe, dry, temperature-controlled space to prevent damage from freezing temperatures or moisture. Use sturdy storage containers to keep everything organized and protected until Spring. 

  • uncheckedCheck Bathroom Exhaust Fans

Clean your bathroom exhaust fans to ensure they’re free of dust and debris, allowing for proper ventilation when you and the whole family need a hot shower more than ever. Remember, poor airflow can lead to moisture buildup, increasing the risk of mold and mildew during the winter, so this is a crucial step for winterizing a home. 

Also, test the fans to ensure they’re functioning correctly, and replace any worn-out components if necessary.

A person and a child stand outdoors in a snowy landscape, holding firewood to winterize the house. They are bundled in winter clothing, preparing with care. A stack of logs is visible in the background, ensuring warmth. A hexagonal logo with "ez" graces the right side of the image.
  • uncheckedStock Up on Firewood

If you live in a country house, farm or cabin, you probably use a wood-burning fireplace or stove. That being the case, stock up on seasoned firewood before winter sets in. Store it in a dry, covered area to keep it ready for use.

Ensure the wood is correctly seasoned to burn efficiently and minimize creosote buildup in your chimney.

System Winterization 

  • uncheckedInspect The HVAC or Heating and Cooling System 

We’ve already talked about changing the HVAC filter, but you should also inspect your entire HVAC system and make sure is ready for the winter by scheduling a professional inspection. 

A technician can check for potential issues, clean the system, and replace worn-out parts, ensuring it runs efficiently during this critical time. Regular maintenance not only keeps your home warm but also extends the life of your system. In addition to a professional tune-up, test your thermostat to ensure accurate temperature control. 

  • uncheckedInvest in Pipe Insulation

Properly insulated pipes reduce the risk of costly burst repairs and improve energy efficiency by keeping hot water pipes warmer for longer. It’s a small investment that pays off big during winter.

You can prevent your pipes from freezing by wrapping them with insulation. Focus on exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, or garages. Foam pipe insulation or heat tape is inexpensive and easy to install, providing peace of mind during subzero weather.

  • uncheckedInsulate Water Heater

And talking about insulation, insulating your water heater can lower energy consumption and have hot water ready even during cold nights. It’s a quick and affordable way to improve efficiency and save on utility bills.

Add an insulating blanket or jacket to keep your water heater working efficiently. This helps reduce heat loss, especially if your water heater is in an unheated house space. 

  • uncheckedTest Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With fireplaces, space heaters, and furnaces working overtime during winter, reliable detectors are critical for preventing accidents and keeping your family safe. Test all smoke and carbon monoxide detectors in your home to ensure they function correctly. Replace batteries if needed, and consider upgrading to models with long-lasting battery life for added convenience.

Storm-Proofing Planning 

A person dressed in a black jacket stands on snow-dusted ground, holding an open first aid kit filled with blister packs and medical supplies. The scene subtly captures the essence of "winterize home" preparedness, with an "ez" logo marking the left side of the image.
  • uncheckedHave an Emergency Kit Ready

Put together an emergency kit while you prepare for unexpected winter storms. It can be a great time to get kids involved and get them ready in case any situation arises in wintertime.  

Your kit should include flashlights, batteries, a first-aid kit, blankets, and a portable phone charger. Don’t forget medications and copies of essential documents in case of extended outages or if you need to evacuate.

  • uncheckedStock Non-perishable Food and Water

Ensure your pantry is stocked with non-perishable foods like canned goods, dried fruits, and granola bars. Aim for at least three days’ worth of supplies per person in your household. Store bottled water as well—The Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA) recommends about one gallon per person per day.

Being prepared means you won’t have to worry about food or water shortages during a storm, giving you one less thing to stress about when winter weather hits.

  • uncheckedHave Alternative Power Sources

Plan for potential power outages by investing in alternative power sources so you can have a charged phone if you need it. A portable generator can keep essential appliances running, while solar-powered chargers ensure your devices stay powered up.

Stock up on battery-powered lanterns, flashlights, and extra batteries for smaller necessities. These backups provide much-needed comfort and convenience during unexpected outages.

  • uncheckedClear Walkways and Driveways

Your home needs to be property-safe and accessible, so clear snow and ice from walkways and driveways as diligently as possible. Use a snow shovel or snowblower to remove heavy snow, and apply salt or sand to prevent slippery surfaces.

The regular upkeep of these areas reduces the risk of slips and falls but also makes it easier for emergency services to access your home if needed. Start early to avoid the buildup of packed snow and ice.

  • uncheckedStock Up on Winter Storm Essentials

Be ready for whatever winter throws at you by gathering storm essentials. This includes rock salt, sand, snow shovels, ice scrapers, and windshield covers for your car. Having these items handy is being prepared to handle icy conditions without scrambling to find supplies at the last minute. It’s all about making winter storms a little easier to manage.

The Bottom Line: Home Winterization Checklist

A large brick and beige house, expertly winterized, is surrounded by snow-covered trees and bushes. The sky is a soft purple. In the foreground, a hexagonal logo with "ez" is displayed on a teal background.

Winterizing your home is not just a list of tasks; it’s an act of love for your house, your family, and your wallet. If you do it before winter arrives, you create a cozier, safer space while enjoying the kind of savings that make every effort worthwhile.

Moreover, knowing your home is ready to handle the harshest weather gives you the freedom to focus on what truly matters—traveling, enjoying holiday festivities, or simply creating unforgettable moments with your family!
For more tips on home care, real estate advice, and inspiration for your next big move, visit the ez Home Search blog, your go-to source for all things real estate.

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Preston Guyton