Winter in Colorado can be brutal, with heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and unexpected storms. Knowing winterizing do’s and don’ts is critical for Grand County homeowners to protect their houses, improve energy efficiency, and keep their homes cozy. But can you do it yourself, or should you call in the pros? Let’s break it down.

Winterizing a home means preparing it to withstand cold weather. This includes sealing drafts, insulating pipes, checking heating systems, and preventing ice buildup on the roof. Proper winterization can save you money on heating bills, prevent costly repairs, and keep your home safe and comfortable.

Grand County partners like Sustainable Grand help local homeowners with DIY methods of winterizing their homes, including finding rebates to cover costs and loaner thermal cameras that can be checked out at the local Grand County libraries.

If DIY isn’t your forte, don’t worry—Wheatley Creek Services has you covered! Our expert team is ready to handle all your winterization needs, ensuring your home stays safe, warm, and protected from the harsh mountain weather. Let us take the hassle out of prepping your home for winter so you can focus on enjoying the season.

If you’re handy and willing to put in the effort, there are several winterization tasks you can tackle on your own:

• Install weather stripping and door sweeps.
• Use plastic film or thermal curtains on windows.
• Caulk gaps around windows and doors.

• Insulate exposed pipes in crawl spaces and garages.
• Keep a slow drip running in faucets to prevent freezing.
• Shut off outdoor water and drain hoses – use a faucet protector, available at the local hardware store.

• Regularly change furnace filters.
• Clean air vents and ensure proper airflow.
• Regularly test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

• Clean gutters to prevent ice buildup.
• Use a roof rake to remove heavy snow.
• Check attic insulation to reduce heat loss.

• Store or cover patio furniture.
• Bring in hoses and shut off irrigation systems.
• Stock up on firewood if using a wood stove.

• Saves Money – No service fees, just material costs.
• Flexible Timing – Do it at your own pace.
• Hands-On Home Care – Learn valuable skills and prevent damage early.

• Time-Consuming – Proper winterization takes effort.
• Requires Tools & Knowledge – Not everyone has the right equipment.
• Risk of Incomplete Work – Missing a step can lead to costly damage.

While many winterization tasks are DIY-friendly, some require expert help. Consider calling professionals for:

• Extensive Roof & Gutter Cleaning – Prevents ice dams and leaks.
• Furnace & HVAC Inspection – Ensures safe, efficient heating.
• Insulation Upgrades – Proper installation prevents heat loss.
• Plumbing Winterization – Avoid burst pipes with expert care.
• Full House Winterization – Leaving your property for the winter? Hire the pros to do a full-house winterization before leaving for the season.

Yes, you can winterize a house if you have the time, tools, and knowledge. However, certain tasks are best left to professionals, especially for older homes or harsh winter climates like Colorado. A mix of DIY efforts and expert help can ensure your home stays safe and efficient all season long.

Need help to winterize your home in Grand County? Contact Wheatley Creek Services today! Plus, visit our partners at Sustainable Grand to learn more about rebates and how to make your home more energy efficient – including a discounted home energy audit to see what work needs to be done