Winterization Tips
Weather-Proofing
Weather-Stripping
Keep out drafts and lower your heating bill by weather-stripping your windows, doors, and attic access points.
Spray Foam Insulation
Weather-proof windows by type: double-hung windows require both self-adhesive foam insulation and V-channel stripping, while casement windows only require self-adhesive foam insulation. Apply spray foam insulation between frames and studs.
Tip
If it's not possible to remove your window and door trim to install stripping or insulation, use latex or acrylic caulk to seal any air leaks.
Easy Fix
Install air-tight plastic window film across your window frames, creating an effective temperature barrier that will save you energy and money on your heating bills. Window film only takes a few minutes to install, and requires no tools or other supplies.
Insulation
Roll Insulation
Roll insulation can be used anywhere in your home, although it's best for covering long unobstructed areas like attics and crawl spaces. It can be cut to fit any size cavity and is typically available in faced and un-faced varieties. Faced insulation is used in exterior walls as well as attics, finished basements, ceilings, floors, knee walls, and cathedral ceilings.
Blown-In Insulation
Use blown-in insulation in attics for easy application. Make sure to consider the insulation's R-value (the measure of a material's ability to resist heat conduction) to get maximum efficiency and performance for your particular region and climate.Try the highly-rated CertainTeed TrueComfort™ Fibre Glass Loose Fill Insulation or, for an eco-friendly alternative, consider GreenFiber Cellulose Blown-In Insulation which is made from 85 percent recycled content.
Exteriors
Make sure your yard, garden, deck, or patio are prepared to withstand the colder climes. Equip your home and property with snow protection for eaves troughs, plants, and garden tools. And don’t be afraid of snow and ice — face them head on with the right snow removal tools and equipment, including snow blowers, salt, shovels, and snow-melting cables and sensors.
Tip: Terra cotta pots are prone to cracking and breaking in freezing temperatures. Try wrapping the containers in insulating material, such as burlap, old blankets, or even bubble wrap
Plumbing
Caulking
Locate and seal cracks and openings in walls, attics, basements, or crawlspaces with caulk.
Pipe Sleeves
Insulate unprotected pipes with pipe sleeves, and seal the slits and joints with duct tape.
Heat Cables
Install heat cables along pipes, making sure to always follow the manufacturer's safety instructions.
Tip
Install thermostat-controlled, UL-listed pipe heating cables along pipes that are vulnerable to dropping temperatures. Use cables that are appropriate for your pipe and follow the manufacturer's instructions for installation. Some manufacturers recommend unplugging the cables at the end of the season.
Try the EasyHeat Water Pipe Freeze Protection Cable (link needed). It keeps water flowing down to -40 degrees and comes pre-assembled and ready to install. An energy-saving thermostat measures pipe temperature, and each foot of cable consumes only seven watts of power.
Clothing
Stay warm by dressing in layers. Whatever outdoor home improvement projects you're working on, you'll need durable, versatile, and reliable workwear to keep you safe and warm in winter.
Tip: In plummeting temperatures, consider wearing a heated jacket to ensure your comfort and safety. The Bosch 12-Volt MAX Lithium Ion Heated Jacket (link needed) has three quick-warming zones (two chest, one back) and a three-level heat controller for maximum control and comfort. Water- and wind-resistant with adjustable sleeves and waist, this lightweight and versatile heated jacket even has a USB charging pocket that's compatible with most electronics.
Heating
Electric Fireplaces
Vent- and smoke-free, electric fireplaces are a great way to enjoy zero-emissions heat.
Portable Heaters
Take the heat to wherever you are in the house with a portable heater.
Central Heating & Cooling
Get the perfect temperature in every room by heating or cooling it to the exact degree.
Programmable Thermostats
A programmable thermostat ensures your heating system operates at maximal efficiency.
Filters
Filters trap dust and dirt so they don't reduce a blower's airflow, but they need to be changed regularly so heating and cooling systems can run efficiently.
Insulated Curtains
Keep the cold out by mounting insulated curtains on your windows and both save money on winter heating costs and beautify your home at the same time.
Winter Storm Prep
When those winds start blowing, make sure you're ready. Keep your family and property safe in case of power failure, fallen trees, or damage to infrastructure.
Tip: In case of a power outage keep shades and curtains open during the day so the sun can warm your space; close them at night to keep heat in. Turn off all your appliances and electronic equipment to prevent damage from a surge when power is restored. Don't open your freezer or fridge unless it's absolutely necessary. A full freezer will keep food frozen for 24 to 36 hours if the door remains closed. Use proper candle holders (deep, wide holders are best) and never leave lit candles unattended. Check on vulnerable family members, friends and neighbours (e.g. the elderly, ill, or disabled) who may require special assistance.
Related Articles
Get a head start on all your household winter prepping tips now. We've got all the tips and products you need to ensure your home and property weather the winter safely and efficiently.
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