Essential Winter Prep: How to Get Your Home Ready for Cold Weather

How to Prepare Your Home for Winter: Essential Tips for a Cozy and Safe Season

When temperatures drop, problems hidden in your home’s exterior quickly reveal themselves—drafty doors, frozen pipes, and insulation that just can’t keep up. This guide breaks down practical steps you can take before winter hits, based on years of firsthand experience in St. Louis homes of all kinds.

Weatherstripping and Draft Control

I’ve replaced plenty of doors where the weatherstripping was either falling apart or missing entirely. Some had no insulation at all. You could feel the cold air rushing in around the edges—and even under the threshold. You could hear the wind blowing through in the slightest breeze.

What to do:
Check all exterior doors and windows for worn-out seals. Replace weatherstripping, add a door sweep, and consider using foam backer rod in wide gaps.

Insulation and Attic Prep

Heat rises—and if your attic is under-insulated, you’re paying for warm air to escape. Check for gaps around attic hatches, can lights, and plumbing penetrations. Fiberglass batts or spray foam can help seal up energy leaks.

What to do:
Look for low or missing insulation in the attic. Add more where needed, especially around vents and recessed lighting. Seal gaps with caulk or expanding foam, and use weatherstripping around attic doors or access panels.

Exterior Maintenance

Inspect siding, trim, and caulking for cracks or damage that can let cold air and moisture in. Paint touch-ups and caulk repairs before winter can prevent costly rot and damage later.

What to do:
Walk around your home’s exterior and check for cracked or missing caulk around windows and trim. Re-caulk gaps, repaint exposed wood, and replace damaged siding or trim to prevent moisture intrusion.

Plumbing Precautions

Frozen pipes are a nightmare. Insulate exposed pipes in basements and crawlspaces, and don’t forget to detach hoses and shut off outdoor spigots. Consider installing frost-proof hose bibs if you don’t already have them.

What to do:
Wrap exposed pipes with foam sleeves or pipe insulation. Turn off water to outdoor faucets and drain them fully. If you don’t have frost-proof spigots, cover them with insulated caps.

HVAC Efficiency and Airflow

Dirty filters can make your HVAC system work overtime to keep your home comfortable. That means more energy use, higher utility bills, and extra strain on the system itself—which can shorten its lifespan or lead to costly repairs down the line. If airflow is blocked or ductwork is clogged, your system might be fighting a losing battle all winter.

What to do:
Replace your furnace filter before the cold weather kicks in—and keep an eye on it throughout the season. Make sure vents and returns are clear of furniture, rugs, or other obstructions. If it’s been a few years, consider hiring a professional to inspect or clean your ductwork to improve airflow and indoor air quality.

Final Thoughts

Getting ahead of winter prep doesn’t have to be overwhelming. A few simple steps now—like sealing drafts, adding insulation, or swapping out an old filter—can go a long way toward keeping your home more comfortable and energy-efficient all season long. Every fix adds up, and the effort you put in before the cold sets in can help prevent expensive surprises when the temperatures drop.