Winter - Ready: 5 Key ways to prepare your home for cold weather in the upstate
As the temperature starts to drop across the upstate, its time to think about preparing your home for winter.
Where ever your are in the Upstate - the cold can creep up fast - and it doesn’t take a snowstorm to cause serious home damage.
At URC Build, we believe in proactive home care. Here are 5 simple, but important ways you can winterize your home and avoid costly surprises when temperatures hit freezing.
Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors
Heat loss around windows and doors can significantly raise your energy bills. Check for cracked caulking, worn weatherstripping, or visible light around door frames. Replacing these seals is a low-cost way to keep warm air in and cold air out.
Quick Tip: Hold a candle near the edges of your door windows and door frames - if the flame flickers, you’ve got a draft.
Drain and Disconnect Outdoor Hoses
Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and expensive) winter problems. If water is left in hoses or connected outdoor spigots, it can freeze and expand, causing burst pipes inside your home.
How to Fix It: Drain your hoses, disconnect them, and store them indoors. If possible, shut off the outdoor water supply and open the spigot to drain any remaining water.
Clean Out Your Gutters
Leaves, twigs, and debris can clog gutters, leading to ice dams- melted snow or rainwater can refreeze and cause damage to your roof, siding, or foundation.
Even in Upstate SC where snowfall is light, fluctuating temperatures often cause freezing at night. Clean your gutters now to prevent backups later.
Schedule an HVAC Tune-Up
Your heating system should be ready to handle the cold nights. A professional HVAC inspection can identify any issues before they become breakdowns during a cold snap.
Pro-tip: Changing our your air filters every 1-3 months to keep your system efficient and your air clean.
Insulate Vulnerable Pipes
Pipes in unheated areas - like crawl spaces, attics, or garages - are at high risk of freezing. Using foam pipe insulation or heat tape to wrap exposed pipes can prevent freezing.
Bonus Safety Reminder: Make sure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries. Heating appliances increase indoor risk, and this quick step can protect your family and your home.
A Little Prep Goes a Long Way
Taking time now to winterize your home can save you from emergency repairs, high utility bills, and unnecessary stress. If you’re unsure about any of these tasks - or just don’t have the time - URC Build is here to help.
We’re a family owned remodeling and construction company proud to serve the Upstate with honest advice and quality work. From inspections to home repairs, we’ll help keep your home comfortable and safe this winter.
Need help winterizing your home? Contact us today to schedule a service or consultation.