Winterizing your home
How to Winterize Your Home in Cold Climates: Protect Your Investment This Season
As the temperatures drop and the snow starts to fall, it’s time to make sure your home is ready for winter. In North Idaho, where freezing temperatures and heavy snow are part of life, winterizing your home isn’t just about comfort — it’s about protecting your investment. A few proactive steps now can help prevent frozen pipes, heat loss, water damage, and costly repairs down the road.
Here’s a complete guide from Synergy Construction Group to keeping your home safe, efficient, and cozy all winter long.
1. Inspect and Service Your Heating System
Before the first cold snap, have your furnace or heating system inspected by a professional. Replace filters, clean vents, and check for leaks or odd noises. If you rely on a wood stove or fireplace, make sure the chimney is cleaned and free of obstructions. A tuned-up system runs more efficiently and helps lower energy bills.
2. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing
Frozen pipes are one of the most common — and expensive — winter problems.
Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like garages, crawl spaces, and basements.
Disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior faucets.
Keep cabinet doors open under sinks to allow warm air to circulate.
If you leave town for the winter, keep your thermostat at least 55°F and consider having someone check your home periodically.
3. Seal Drafts and Air Leaks
Cold air sneaks in through even the smallest gaps around windows, doors, and outlets. Use weatherstripping, caulk, or door sweeps to seal leaks and improve your home’s insulation. This simple step can make a big difference in comfort and heating efficiency.
4. Check Your Roof and Gutters
Snow and ice can take a toll on your roof. Before winter sets in, inspect for missing shingles or weak spots and clean your gutters thoroughly. Clogged gutters cause ice dams that can lead to leaks and water damage inside your home. If needed, install gutter guards or heating cables to help prevent buildup.
5. Inspect Windows and Doors
If your windows feel cold or drafty, consider upgrading to energy-efficient models or adding storm windows. For a quick fix, use heavy curtains or plastic film insulation kits to keep warm air in and cold air out.
6. Prepare Outdoor Areas
Winterize your deck, patio, and outdoor plumbing by draining irrigation lines and storing hoses. Cover or store outdoor furniture, clean off your grill, and check that snow removal tools and equipment (like shovels and snowblowers) are ready to go.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
With heating systems running and homes sealed tight, the risk of carbon monoxide exposure increases in winter. Test all detectors, replace batteries, and ensure you have working units on every level of your home.
8. Schedule a Winter Maintenance Check
A professional home maintenance inspection can help catch small issues before they become big problems. At Synergy Construction Group, we offer seasonal home maintenance and winterizing services — from pipe insulation and weatherproofing to roof inspections and second-home checkups.
Final Thoughts
Winter in North Idaho is beautiful, but it can be tough on homes. Taking time to properly winterize protects your property, saves energy, and keeps you comfortable all season long. If you need help preparing your home — or your vacation property — for the cold, Synergy Construction Group is here to help with reliable, local expertise and trusted care.
