Northern Colorado winters can be beautiful, but they can also be harsh on your home. If you don't take proper precautions, the cold weather, snow, and ice can cause damage to your roof, siding, foundation, and other important components.

Here are some of the best home care strategies for winter in Northern Colorado:

1. Winterize your plumbing

One of the most important things you can do to protect your home in the winter is to winterize your plumbing. This means draining and insulating your pipes to prevent them from freezing.

To winterize your plumbing, you'll need to:

Disconnect all hoses from outside faucets and shut off the water supply to those faucets.
Drain your sprinkler system.
Insulate exposed pipes, especially in the attic and crawl space.
Set your thermostat to at least 61 degrees Fahrenheit, even when you're not home.

If you're going to be away from home for an extended period of time during the winter, it's a good idea to ask a neighbor or friend to check on your home regularly to make sure the heat is on and that the pipes haven't frozen.

2. Inspect your roof

Before winter arrives, it's important to inspect your roof for any damage. Look for missing or damaged shingles, as well as any signs of leaks. If you find any problems, have them repaired immediately to prevent further damage.

In addition to inspecting your roof, it's also a good idea to clear any debris, such as leaves and branches, from the gutters and downspouts. This will help to prevent ice dams from forming, which can lead to leaks and other damage.

3. Clean and inspect your gutters and downspouts

Gutters and downspouts are an important part of your home's drainage system. They help to divert water away from your foundation and prevent flooding.

Before winter arrives, it's important to clean and inspect your gutters and downspouts to make sure they are free of debris. This will help to ensure that they can function properly and protect your home from water damage.

4. Check your heating system

Before you rely on your heating system to keep you warm all winter long, it's important to have it checked by a professional. This will help to ensure that it is in good working order and that it is operating efficiently.

During the winter, it's also a good idea to change your furnace filter regularly. This will help to keep your system clean and running smoothly.

5. Seal your windows and doors

Windows and doors can be a major source of heat loss in the winter. To help keep your home warm and energy-efficient, it's important to seal any drafts around windows and doors. You can do this by using caulk or weatherstripping. You may also want to consider installing storm windows or doors.

6. Insulate your attic

The attic is another major source of heat loss in the winter. By insulating your attic, you can help to keep your home warm and energy-efficient.

There are a variety of different types of attic insulation available, so be sure to consult with a professional to determine the best type of insulation for your home. Give me a call for a list of companies my clients trust to insulate your home!

7. Protect your landscaping

Winter can be tough on your landscaping. To protect your plants and trees from the cold weather, you may want to consider wrapping them in burlap or other protective material.

You should also water your plants deeply before the ground freezes. This will help to insulate their roots and protect them from the cold.

8. Remove snow and ice from your driveway and walkways

Snow and ice can be a hazard for homeowners and visitors alike. To prevent slips and falls, it's important to remove snow and ice from your driveway and walkways as soon as possible after a storm.

When shoveling snow, be careful not to overexert yourself. Take breaks often and use proper lifting techniques.

If you have a driveway or walkway that is heated, be sure to turn it on before the snow starts to fall. This will help to prevent snow and ice from accumulating.

9. Be prepared for power outages

Power outages are more common in the winter, so it's important to be prepared. Have a flashlight, batteries, and a battery-operated radio on hand.

You may also want to consider investing in a generator. This can be a lifesaver if you have a power outage that lasts for more than a few hours.

10. Have a plan in case of an emergency

It's always a good idea to have a plan in case of an emergency, especially during the winter months. Make sure you know how to contact your local emergency services and have a plan for what to do if you lose power, heat, or water.

Here are some additional tips for staying safe during a winter emergency:

Keep an emergency kit on hand. This should include food, water, a first-aid kit, and other essential items.
Have a plan for where to go if you need to evacuate your home. This may be a friend's or family member's home, a hotel, or a public shelter.
Stay informed about the weather forecast and road conditions. This will help you to make informed decisions about your safety.
Check on elderly or disabled neighbors to make sure they are safe and have what they need.

By following these tips, you can help to keep your home and family safe during the winter months.

Here is a sample emergency plan for your household:

Communication plan: How will you stay in touch with each other if you are separated? Will you use text messaging, social media, or a battery-operated radio?
Evacuation plan: Where will you go if you need to evacuate your home? Have a backup plan in case your first choice is not available.
Shelter-in-place plan: What will you do if you need to shelter in place? Do you have enough food, water, and other supplies to last for several days?
First-aid plan: Who is responsible for first aid in your household? Do you have a first-aid kit and know how to use it?
Pet plan: What will you do with your pets in an emergency? Do you have a plan for where they will go and how they will be cared for?

Review your emergency plan regularly and make sure that everyone in your household knows it.

For more tips and contact information for local vendors that can help you prepare and maintain your home in the winter, give me a call or shoot me a message!

Happy Holidays from the Marinangeli’s!