Winter is no joke, especially in Grand County, Colorado, where freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and harsh winds can take a serious toll on your home. But when exactly should you start preparing for the cold? At what temperature should you winterize your house? The answer depends on a few factors, including where you live, how your home is built, and whether you plan to stay in it during the winter. Let’s break it down so you know when and how to start winterizing your home before it’s too late.

If you live in a place like Grand County, where temperatures often dip well below freezing, winterization should start before the first frost. The general rule of thumb is:

• If temperatures are expected to drop below 50°F (10°C) – It’s time to start preparing. This is a good temperature to check your heating system, inspect for drafts, and insulate your home.
• At 40°F (4°C) – Water inside pipes can begin to freeze overnight, leading to cracks or bursts.
• At 32°F (0°C) and Below – Any exposed pipes, outdoor spigots, or unheated spaces are at serious risk of freezing damage.

Bottom line: If you haven’t winterized your home by the time temperatures hit 40°F, you’re cutting it close!

• Schedule HVAC maintenance and change furnace filters.
• Check the insulation in attics, basements, and crawl spaces.
• Seal cracks around windows and doors to prevent drafts.
• Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

• Start using weather stripping and draft stoppers.
• Wrap exposed pipes in garages, basements, and crawl spaces.
• Flush and shut off outdoor sprinklers and irrigation systems.
• Clean gutters to prevent ice dams.

• Keep faucets dripping to prevent pipes from freezing.
• Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to reach pipes.
• Set the thermostat to at least 55°F if you’re away.
• Use space heaters safely in extra cold areas.

If you own a second home or cabin in Grand County that will be vacant for the winter, winterization is critical.

• Shut off and drain the water supply to prevent frozen pipes.
• Blow out plumbing lines with compressed air.
• Set the thermostat to at least 50°F.
• Close fireplace dampers to prevent drafts.
• Arrange for house checks to monitor the property.

Winter in Colorado can be unpredictable, and waiting too long to winterize can lead to costly repairs, burst pipes, and high energy bills. Start early when temperatures start to drop below 50°F and take action before freezing weather sets in.

Need help to winterize your home? Wheatley Creek Services offers professional house checks, handyman services, and winterization solutions to keep your home protected all season long.