The air is crisp, the leaves are turning, and the summer sunshine is slowly fading. While you enjoy everything pumpkin spice, remember it’s your final, and most critical, opportunity to inspect and secure your home’s exterior before the brutal reality of winter sets in.
Your windows, doors, siding, and roofing are your home’s primary defense against freezing temperatures, high winds, and heavy snow. Neglect any of these in October, and you risk costly emergencies, uncomfortable drafts, and sky-high heating bills in December. Follow along to see Olson Window’s 5-step checklist to winter-proof your home, ensuring a cozy, and energy-efficient season.
Step 1: Review Your Roof & Clear the Drainage 
Don’t wait for the first snowfall to find out something’s wrong with your roof- a quick check up now can save you time and money.
Begin by taking a look at your shingles from the ground. If you notice any curling, cracking, or missing shingles, especially near vents or chimneys, it’s a good indicator that your roof could be vulnerable to leaks. One of the most important tasks this time of year is cleaning your gutters and downspouts. Clogged gutters can cause melting snow to back up under your shingles, freeze, and form destructive ice dams. While you’re at it, take time to trim back any overhanging branches that could break under snow load and damage your roof.
Step 2: Eliminate Drafts and Boost Window Efficiency
Windows can be one of the biggest sources of heat loss in a home, sometimes accounting for up to 30% of your energy bill in the colder months. A quick way to check for leaks is to hold a thin piece of paper near the edges of your windows on a windy day. If the paper flutters you’ve got an air leak. Replacing worn weatherstripping or applying new caulk can offer a temporary fix. However, if your windows are drafty, fogged between panes, or just plain outdated, now’s a smart time to consider home window replacement. Energy-efficient options such as Olson’s premium vinyl windows and insulated frames not only reduce heat transfer but also help stabilize indoor temperatures and lower your heating costs all winter long.
Step 3: Seal Entry Points and Protect Your Doors
Though often overlooked, your front and patio doors play a major role in your home’s energy efficiency. A simple way to test the seal is by closing the door on a dollar bill. If it slides out easily, the weatherstripping is likely too loose. Also, check the door’s threshold and adjust it so the sweep sits snugly against the floor. If your door is older, warped, or made of outdated materials like hollow wood, consider upgrading to a modern fiberglass or steel door for your home. These newer models not only look better but offer significantly better insulation and security.
Step 4: Inspect Siding for Winter Damage
Your siding protects the structure of your home from rain, snow, and ice. A quick walk around the exterior can reveal small issues like cracks, warping, or bubbling- especially around the base of the home or near utility lines. For wood siding, peeling paint or soft spots could point to hidden moisture damage. Seal up any gaps where critters could sneak in for warmth, and take a few minutes to give the siding a light cleaning to remove dirt, mildew, and debris that could wear down the material over time.
Step 5: Evaluate Your Attic Ventilation & Insulation
Last but not least, take a peek into your attic. This space plays a major role in controlling heat loss and preventing ice dams. Make sure insulation is evenly distributed and deep enough to create a solid thermal barrier. Proper ventilation and steady airflow through soffit and ridge vents help prevent moisture buildup and keeps the roof surface cold enough to avoid freeze-thaw cycles that damage shingles.
When Replacement is Necessary, Olson Windows Is Here to Help
Preparing your home now means better comfort and performance all season long. When it’s time to replace windows, doors, siding, or roofing, homeowners trust Olson Windows. We offer expert guidance, honest service, and personalized solutions- just like we’d want for our own homes. Contact us today and get your home winter-ready before the first snow falls.
