Winter in Wisconsin means freezing temperatures, blizzards, and harsh weather that becomes a menace for an unkempered house. Your house should provide a cocoon of coziness and warmth from the cold; weatherproofing it for the season ultimately guarantees comfort and safety all through the chilly winter. The obvious things to do for winterizing your house can often slip your memory-it is a tedious job to remember.
However, with this checklist, you don’t have to do that by yourself! We have compiled a full checklist for the homeowner, be it for himself or the professional who can help him. This checklist will ensure that proactive measures are taken to seal the home against the cold and avoid building problems such as burst pipes, and excessively high heating bills.
Step 1: Seal Up Your Windows
Windows are among the major conduits through which heat escapes during the winter. Fortunately, there are some fairly easy and effective techniques to winterize windows. First, check the weatherstripping or caulking that surrounds the window: If it has deteriorated, replace it. If you find any gaps, you could also try putting on additional foam tape around the edges.
You can also hang insulated curtains or apply window film to help trap heat or keep out the cold air for a more temporary fix. As for a better long-term solution, consider investing in energy-efficient windows, which will eliminate drafts and save you money on heating.
Step 2: Insulation and Sealing of Your Doors
Gaps around your external doors allow cold air to sneak inside; thus, the seals need to be checked. Look for any signs of wear or damage in the weatherstripping, and replace anything that is not in good shape. If air is visibly entering, newly-installed weatherstripping will make a big difference. For sliding doors, consider getting a draft stopper or simply replacing the weatherstrip around the frame, ensuring it is tightly sealed.
If you are looking for extra insulation, consider installing storm doors, which will serve as protection to keep your main door from the cold, wind, and rain.
Step 3: Inspect Your Roof; Clean Your Gutters
Take some time to inspect the roof before snow and ice can pile up. Repair any damaged or missing shingles with a view toward the upcoming winter weather. Pay close attention to any areas around the chimney or roof vents, which typically are susceptible to leaks.
The gutters also deserve attention. Ice dams could easily result from clogged gutters and would do considerable damage to the roof and home thereafter. Clean out leaves and other debris so that your gutters can allow free flow and prevent the buildup of ice.
Step 4: Check Your Heating System
Standing by in your own winter time of need is the last thing your heating system would ever wish to do. Rightly so, you would want to inspect the condition of your furnace or heating system before it gets really cold. Turn the equipment on and check efficiency right before the first cold snap. If your heating system runs on propane or other fuels, ensure you have ample quantity for the season.
Ensure to clean heating vents and replace air filters; it will ensure a good functioning system and good air quality in your home. Finally, do check the carbon monoxide detector-a small step but great to save lives.
Step 5: Prepare Your Outdoor Equipment for Winterization
Don’t forget about those summer tools and implements. There will be mower machines, string trimmers, and garden hoses that need to be stored for next spring’s use. Clean them up, drain any gasoline, and put them away in a dry, sheltered place.
If you have recreational vehicles for outdoor activities: boats, jet skis, dirt bikes, etc., give them some extra time for a winterizing procedure too. They deserve an extra minute: draining all fuel left in the tank, carrying out some relevant maintenance to hinder engine seizure while they spend the winter months in slumber.
step 6: Ready to Prepare Snow Removal Gear
When the first big snow hits, the last thing you want is finding your snowblower dead. Working on your snow-removing machines will ensure their soundness. Change the oil, check that spark plug, and clear any dirt or debris that could impair it from functioning well.
Also, place your snow shovels, ice melt, and any other winter essentials where they can be readily accessed when needed.
Step 7:Prepare Pipes for Water
In Wisconsin, temperatures quite frequently dip below freezing, endangering the exposed water pipes. Water freezing inside the pipes makes them expand and crack, causing costly repairs. Therefore, check for any exposed pipes in your house, particularly in the attic, basement, or near windows and ground walls. These need to be wrapped in foam or electrical heating tape.
Always remember to drain any outdoor faucets before winter weather. Shut off the water to these outdoor faucets and open the outdoor valve to let any remaining water drain.
Step 8:Protect the Outdoor Furniture and Gear
Outdoor furniture, grills, and other equipment can take a serious beating during the winter months. For the sake of longevity, either cover outdoor furniture with tarps or move it into a safe place, such as your garage or shed. If storing outside, be sure to clean the grill and other gear and cover them to protect from the elements.
Step 9:Winterize Your Air Conditioner
The AC may not really be used in winter, but that doesn’t mean it can be neglected. By removing debris and hosing down the A/C outside unit, one can clean thoroughly to avoid rusting and freezing of internal parts. When dry, cover with a waterproof tarp to protect from rain and snow. You may also consider taking out your window A/C altogether to keep the cold draughts away from your home.
Step 10: Check Your Fireplace and Chimney
For those who have chimneys, now is the time to make sure they are all ready for time after time of warm fireplace cozy nights. Check your damper and ensure that it is working and sealing tightly when closed. Small animals can make nests inside chimneys over alternating warm months; get those checked and cleaned by a professional chimney sweep for any potential blockages and fire hazards.
Bonus Tip: Winter Supplies for Emergency
It is always wise to keep emergency supplies during the winter months since the weather may very well turn for the worse. Blankets, ice scrapers, collapsible shovels, flashlights, and first-aid kits should be present in your car. Given the inexplicable actions of a Wisconsin winter, better safe than sorry.
In Closing
Winterizing your home is a handsome investment in comfort and safety during the colder months. If you check off these items on the checklist, you’ll be on your way to preparing for whatever winter decides to send your way. Heating system checks, securing water pipes, or getting stir crazy with your snow-removal equipment-these quick steps spare you hours of repairs and headaches.
If you have errands coming up in the future that might require an extra hand with repairs or upgrades, then please let us know. Asher provides excellent exterior products and services to aid you in winterizing your home and maintaining it year-round. Wishing you warmth and safety this winter!
