Sandee Abern and Clint Wolf

How to Winterizing Your Home

1. Seal leaks around doors and windows

	Add or replace worn out or damaged weather stripping around doors and windows.
	Caulk gaps (wherever necessary) throughout your home.
	If you have them, install storm windows and doors.
	Replace worn out doorstops at the bottom of doors.
	Replace worn out, old windows with new energy efficient windows.

2. Seal other leaks

	Use caulking and weather stripping around other areas where cold air might leak in.
	Install insulating kits behind electrical plugs and outlets that are up against exterior walls.

3. Do a heating system check

	Have a professional clean and check your furnace before cold weather arrives.
	Have a professional vacuum your vents and other heating components.
	Make sure that your furnace filter is clean. If it's not, replace it or wash it.
	If you have an oil or propane tank, make sure that it's filled and ready for winter.
	Consider getting a programmable thermostat. It will save you money year round.

4. Take care of your fireplace

	Have a professional chimney inspector clean and check your fireplace and chimney.
	Close your fireplace damper when the fireplace is not in use.

5. Check your roof

Have a professional inspect your roof and replace any loose shingles.

Make sure that any flashing around your chimney and vent pipes is secure and watertight.

Consider installing a screen at the top of your chimney to keep out leaves and stray varmints.

Trim back over-hanging tree limbs.

Clean and check drain gutters.

6. Winterize your plumbing

Make sure that all exposed pipes (that are susceptible to freezing) are well insulated.

Apply heat tape where needed.

Drain water from outside sources (such as faucets).

If possible, re-route exterior water pipes (such as those running through a garage).

7. Winterize outdoor items

	Give decks and fences an additional coat of paint or sealer.
	Check your home's foundation for cracks and openings. Repair as necessary.
	Drain garden hoses and roll them up.
	Cut back perennial plants and add mulch to perennial flower beds.
	Replace any cracked windows.
	Cover and/or store outdoor furniture.
	Close and cover your swimming pool (if you have one).

8. Get ready for bad weather

	Have shovels, gloves and hats ready and easily accessible.
	Make sure your snow blower is working and in good shape.
	Make sure you have a flashlight and batteries.
	Make sure that you have extra firewood.
	Fill your propane tank or buy charcoal for your outdoor grill.
	Buy a battery powered radio or weather radio.

9. Are you sick of winterizing your home?

Move to a warmer climate by contacting Sandee and Clint today!

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	Have a professional inspect your roof and replace any loose shingles.
	Make sure that any flashing around your chimney and vent pipes is secure and watertight.
	Consider installing a screen at the top of your chimney to keep out leaves and stray varmints.
	Trim back over-hanging tree limbs.
	Clean and check drain gutters.

	Make sure that all exposed pipes (that are susceptible to freezing) are well insulated.
	Apply heat tape where needed.
	Drain water from outside sources (such as faucets).
	If possible, re-route exterior water pipes (such as those running through a garage).