10 Ways To Protect Your Home From Iowa’s Coldest Weather

Iowa winters can be tough. As the temperatures drop and snowstorms roll in, your home can face all sorts of risks, from frozen pipes to roof damage. 

The good news? With a bit of preparation, you can protect your home and avoid expensive repairs down the road. Our team has put together some simple but effective steps to help you get your home winter-ready, keeping both your property and your wallet safe as the cold sets in.

Here are our top 10 tips for preparing your home for winter:

1. Clean Your Gutters
   Blocked gutters can lead to some serious issues, like foundation damage, roof leaks or even ruined landscaping. Cleaning your gutters in both the spring and fall is a good maintenance rule of thumb. 

   If you’ve just had a major storm, consider an extra cleaning to clear out any debris that may have blown in. We recommend cleaning from a ladder (not the roof) or hiring a professional to handle it safely.

2. Seal Windows and Doors
   Don’t let all that warm air slip away! Sealing any gaps around your windows and doors can make a big difference in your heating bill. Weatherstripping your doors and applying caulk around windows is a great start. If it’s been a while since you’ve checked for drafts around your windows and doors, now’s the perfect time to make sure everything is in place. You might also consider using a window insulation kit for added protection.
3. Trim Your Trees
   Overhanging branches can cause major damage if they fall on your roof, especially when weighed down by snow or ice. Trimming trees near your home is an easy way to protect your roof this winter. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, a tree care professional can ensure it’s done safely.
4. Seal Your Deck
   Your deck takes a beating in the winter months, so applying a good sealant before the snow falls is key to keeping it in good shape. Clear treatments need to be applied more frequently, while opaque stains tend to last longer. Fall is the perfect time to seal your deck, so don’t wait until spring when damage may already be done.
5. Check and Replace Furnace Filters
   Your furnace works overtime in the winter, so it’s important to keep it running smoothly. Replace or clean the filters according to your furnace manufacturer’s guidelines. Some only need it once a year, while others may need it more frequently. Take this time to turn your furnace on and make sure everything is working properly before the cold hits.
6. Clean Your Chimney
   If you have a wood-burning fireplace, cleaning your chimney is a must before winter. This reduces the risk of a fire and ensures your chimney is safe and ready to keep you warm all season long.
7. Insulate Your Pipes
   Frozen pipes can lead to costly repairs, so it’s smart to insulate any exposed pipes, especially those in basements or outside. Using foam insulation or heat tape can help prevent freezing and bursting.
8. Check Your Attic Insulation 
   Our Heartland team can help make sure your attic is effectively insulated to protect against winter headaches. With proper attic insulation, you’ll keep warm air inside, reduce the risk of ice dams forming and ensure that snow melts gradually throughout the season. 
9. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
   Did you know your ceiling fan can help keep your home warm? Most fans have a reversible setting. In the winter, run your fan clockwise to push warm air down, helping you stay cozy without overworking your heating system.
10. Winterize Your Garden
    Make sure your sprinkler system is drained and unhook any hoses before the first frost. Also, empty your rain barrels and flip them upside down to prevent cracking. Don’t forget to drain the gas from your lawn mower or use a gas stabilizer to keep it in good shape for next season.