Prepare your Home for Winter
Oct 11, 2025Preparing Your Home for the Winter Months: Essential Tips for a Warm, Energy-Efficient Home
At Centennial Home Improvement, we’ve put together a few professional tips to help you get your home winter-ready.
1. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters
- Before the first snowfall, take a close look at your gutters and downspouts. Clogged or sagging gutters can lead to ice dams, roof leaks, and even foundation issues.
- Remove leaves, twigs, and debris from your gutters.
- Make sure downspouts are securely attached and direct water away from your foundation.
- Consider installing gutter guards to keep debris out and minimize maintenance throughout the season.
If you’re not comfortable getting up on a ladder, our team offers professional gutter cleaning and protection systems to help you stay safe while keeping your home protected.
2. Check Your Roof for Damage
Your roof is your home’s first line of defense against winter weather. Before the snow flies, inspect your shingles for signs of damage such as cracks, curling, or missing sections.
- Replace damaged shingles to prevent leaks.
- Look for sagging areas or soft spots that could indicate water damage.
- Clear off any branches or debris resting on the roof.
If you’re unsure of your roof’s condition, schedule a professional roof inspection with Centennial Home Improvement—we’ll make sure it’s ready to handle whatever winter brings.
3. Seal Windows and Doors
Drafty windows and doors can quickly drive up your heating bills. Seal any gaps or cracks with caulk or weatherstripping to keep warm air in and cold air out.
If your windows are outdated or difficult to open and close, consider upgrading to energy-efficient replacement windows. Energy-efficient vinyl replacement windows help maintain indoor comfort while reducing heating costs all winter long.
4. Insulate Your Attic and Walls
Proper insulation is one of the best ways to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Check your attic insulation depth—it should be at least 16 inches to effectively keep heat from escaping. Adding insulation to walls and crawl spaces can also help maintain a consistent temperature throughout your home.
5. Inspect Exterior Doors and Siding
Before the harsh weather hits, check your home’s siding and doors for signs of wear or damage. Cracks or gaps in siding can allow cold air and moisture inside, leading to costly issues later.
Upgrading to insulated entry doors or repairing damaged siding helps protect your home’s structure and boosts curb appeal even in the dreariest winter months.
6. Service Your Heating System
- Make sure your furnace or heat pump is working efficiently before you rely on it daily.
- Change or clean air filters.
- Have your system professionally serviced.
- Check that your thermostat is working properly
These simple steps can improve efficiency and help prevent mid-winter breakdowns
7. Prepare Outdoor Areas
Don’t forget about the exterior of your home:
- Disconnect and drain garden hoses.
- Store outdoor furniture or cover it.
Check walkways and driveways for cracks and seal them to prevent water damage and ice buildup.
Stay Warm, Safe, and Protected This Winter
Taking the time to prepare your home for winter can save you money, energy, and stress when the weather turns cold. Whether you need new gutters, energy-efficient windows, roofing repairs, or exterior upgrades, Centennial Home Improvement is here to help.
📞 Contact us today to schedule your fall inspection or request a free estimate. Let’s make sure your home is ready to handle another Iowa winter—warm, dry, and worry-free.
