How Much Does It Cost to Winterize a House?

Written by

Dumitru Nicolaescu

Updated:

December 17, 2024

As winter approaches, homeowners face the crucial task of preparing their houses for the harsh weather ahead. Winterizing your home is not just about comfort; it's a vital step in protecting your property, ensuring safety, and reducing energy costs.

Whether you're a first-time homeowner or a seasoned pro, our comprehensive guide on how to winterize a house will equip you with the knowledge and steps needed to safeguard your home against winter's chill.

From simple DIY tasks to more complex procedures, we'll walk you through a thorough winterize home checklist, covering everything from insulation and pipe protection to HVAC maintenance and energy-saving tips.

By following this guide, you'll not only create a cozy haven for the cold months but also potentially save hundreds on your energy bills and prevent costly winter-related damages.

Cost of Winterizing a House

The cost to winterize a house can vary significantly depending on the size of your home, its current condition, and the extent of winterization you choose to implement.

On average, homeowners can expect to spend between $200 to $1,000 for basic winterization tasks. However, more comprehensive winterization efforts can range from $1,000 to $5,000 or more.

Here's a breakdown of major winterization projects, their approximate costs, potential energy savings, annual savings, and payback periods:

Insulation:
- Attic insulation:
  - Cost: $1,500 to $3,500
  - Potential Energy Savings: Up to 15% on heating and cooling costs
  - Annual Savings: $200-$300 for an average home
  - Payback Period: 5-7 years
- Wall insulation:
  - Cost: $1,000 to $4,000
  - Potential Energy Savings: Up to 12% on heating and cooling costs
  - Annual Savings: $160-$240 for an average home
  - Payback Period: 6-8 years
- Basement Insulation:
  - Cost: $1,500 to $2,500
  - Potential Energy Savings: Up to 11% on heating costs
  - Annual Savings: $150-$200 for an average home
  - Payback Period: 7-10 years
Weatherstripping:
- DIY kits: $20 to $100
- Professional installation: $200 to $600
- Potential Energy Savings: Up to 10% on heating costs
- Annual Savings: $130-$180 for an average home
- Payback Period: 1-3 years
HVAC System Service:
- Annual tune-up: $80 to $200
- Potential Energy Savings: Up to 15% on heating and cooling costs
- Annual Savings: $200-$300 for an average home
- Payback Period: Less than 1 year
Chimney Cleaning and Inspection:
- Cost: $150 to $350
- While this doesn't directly save energy, it ensures safety and efficiency of your heating system
Gutter Cleaning:
- Cost: $100 to $250
- This prevents water damage, which can indirectly affect your home's energy efficiency
Pipe Insulation:
- DIY materials: $50 to $200
- Professional installation: $200 to $1,000
- Potential Energy Savings: Up to 3% on water heating costs
- Annual Savings: $40-$60 for an average home
- Payback Period: 2-5 years
Window Treatments:
- Plastic window film: $20 to $100
  - Potential Energy Savings: Up to 14% on heating costs
  - Annual Savings: $180-$240 for an average home
  - Payback Period: Less than 1 year
- Storm windows: $200 to $800 per window
  - Potential Energy Savings: Up to 20% on heating and cooling costs
  - Annual Savings: $260-$340 for an average home
  - Payback Period: 3-5 years
Roof Inspection and Repair:
- Inspection: $100 to $300
- Minor repairs: $150 to $1,500
- While this doesn't directly save energy, it prevents leaks that can compromise insulation and overall home efficiency
Professional Energy Audit:
- Cost: $200 to $700
- This can identify areas for improvement, potentially leading to 5-30% energy savings depending on implemented recommendations

While these costs may seem significant, it's important to consider the long-term savings on energy bills and potential repair costs from winter damage. Many winterization measures, such as adding insulation or upgrading to energy-efficient windows, can provide a return on investment through lower utility bills over time.

To manage costs effectively:

Prioritize tasks based on your home's specific needs and your budget.
Consider DIY options for simpler tasks like weatherstripping or installing window film.
Look for energy efficiency rebates or tax credits that may offset some costs.
Spread out more expensive upgrades over several years if necessary.

Remember, the cost of winterizing your home is an investment in comfort, energy efficiency, and the long-term protection of your property.

By taking proactive steps to winterize, you can avoid costly emergency repairs and enjoy a warmer, more comfortable home throughout the winter months.

Note: Energy savings and payback periods are estimates based on average homes and energy prices.

Actual savings may vary depending on factors such as local climate, energy costs, home size, and current insulation levels.

It's recommended to get a professional energy audit for more accurate estimates tailored to your specific home.

When To Winterize

The ideal time to winterize your house is during the fall season, typically between September and November, before the first frost hits.

This timing allows you to prepare your home while the weather is still mild, making outdoor tasks more manageable and giving you ample time to address any issues discovered during the process.

In regions with harsh winters, like Illinois, it's crucial to start early, as unexpected cold snaps can arrive sooner than anticipated.

For example, the November 2019 arctic blast in Chicagoland, which brought temperatures down to around 12 degrees, caught many homeowners off guard.

By beginning your winterization efforts in early fall, you ensure that your home is fully protected before winter's chill sets in.

Remember, some winterization tasks, such as scheduling professional HVAC servicing or energy audits, may require appointments that fill up quickly as winter approaches.

Starting early also allows you to spread out more costly upgrades over a longer period, making the process more budget-friendly.

Winterize Home Checklist

In the following sections, we'll cover all essential winterization tasks, both big and small, ensuring you don't overlook any crucial areas.

From major projects like attic insulation to simple yet effective measures such as reversing ceiling fans, this guide will help you methodically address potential weak points in your home's winter defenses.

Exterior Preparation

Clean the gutters

Clear your gutters of leaves, twigs, and debris to prevent ice dams. Clogged gutters can lead to water backing up and freezing, potentially causing damage to your roof and walls. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce future buildup.

Inspect the roof and attic

Examine your roof for damaged or missing shingles, which could lead to leaks. Check the attic for proper ventilation and signs of water damage. Adequate attic insulation is crucial for preventing heat loss and ice dam formation.

Check the chimney

Have a professional inspect and clean your chimney to ensure it's free from obstructions and safe to use. A clean chimney reduces the risk of chimney fires and improves heating efficiency.

Clear the yard

Remove dead branches from trees near your house to prevent them from falling during winter storms. Store outdoor furniture, grills, and other items that could be damaged by harsh weather.

Insulation and Sealing

Winterize windows and doors

Apply weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts. Use caulk to seal any gaps or cracks. Consider installing storm windows or plastic window film for added insulation.

Check for air gaps and seal them

Inspect your home's exterior for any gaps or cracks, particularly around utility entry points. Seal these openings with appropriate materials like expandable foam or caulk to prevent cold air infiltration.

Insulate your garage door

Add insulation to your garage door to keep the space warmer, which is especially important if you have living spaces above or adjacent to the garage.

Check your attic insulation

Ensure your attic has adequate insulation. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends R-38 to R-60 insulation in attics for most regions. Proper insulation can significantly reduce heat loss and lower energy bills.

Plumbing Protection

Protect the pipes

Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and exterior walls to prevent freezing. Consider using heat tape for extra protection in extremely cold regions.

Disconnect hoses and sprinkler systems

Remove and drain garden hoses, then store them indoors. Drain and shut off your sprinkler system to prevent freezing and potential pipe bursts.

Winterize outside faucets

Install foam faucet covers on exterior spigots to protect them from freezing temperatures. For extra protection, consider shutting off the water supply to outdoor faucets from inside your home.

Drain and shut off water sources

If you have a swimming pool or outdoor water features, drain them according to manufacturer instructions and shut off their water supply.

HVAC and Heating System Maintenance

Service the HVAC system

Schedule a professional inspection and tune-up of your heating system. This ensures efficient operation, reduces the risk of breakdowns, and can lower energy costs.

Winterize air conditioning units

Cover outdoor AC units to protect them from snow and ice. For window units, either remove them and store them or insulate them thoroughly if they must remain in place.

Replace your HVAC filters

Install clean filters in your heating system to improve efficiency and air quality. Consider using higher MERV-rated filters for better performance.

Adjust your thermostat

Program your thermostat to lower temperatures when you're asleep or away from home. Smart thermostats can learn your schedule and optimize heating for comfort and efficiency.

Reverse your ceiling fans

Switch your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise, which pushes warm air down from the ceiling, improving overall room warmth.

Energy Efficiency Measures

Install window treatments

Hang heavy curtains or install cellular shades to add an extra layer of insulation to your windows.

Open the curtains of south-facing windows

During the day, open curtains on south-facing windows to let in warming sunlight, then close them at night to retain heat.

Turn down the thermostat

Lower your thermostat a few degrees and wear warmer clothing indoors. Every degree lower can result in noticeable energy savings.

Seal your fireplace

When not in use, keep the damper closed to prevent warm air from escaping. Consider using a chimney balloon for added insulation.

Lower your water heater temperature

Reduce your water heater temperature to 120°F (49°C) to save energy while still providing sufficiently hot water.

Safety and Comfort

Ensure snow removal tools are accessible

Keep shovels, ice melt, and other snow removal equipment easily accessible. Consider investing in a snow blower if you live in an area with heavy snowfall.

Stock up on the right tools and materials

Gather necessary winter supplies like extra batteries, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, and a first aid kit in case of power outages or storms.

Inspect and clean your dryer vents

Clear lint from your dryer vents to improve efficiency and reduce fire risk. Ensure the exterior vent flap closes properly to keep out cold air and pests.

Test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors

Check all detectors in your home and replace batteries if needed. Carbon monoxide risks increase in winter due to the use of heating systems.

Lay down rugs

Place rugs on bare floors to add warmth and comfort underfoot during colder months.

Purchase winter storm essentials

Stock up on non-perishable food, water, medications, and other essentials in case severe winter weather prevents you from leaving home.

By systematically working through this comprehensive checklist, you'll ensure your home is well-prepared to withstand the challenges of winter while keeping you and your family safe, warm, and comfortable.

Conclusion

Winterizing your home is a crucial step in preparing for the cold months ahead.

By following this comprehensive checklist, you're not only ensuring your family's comfort but also protecting your home from potential winter damage and reducing your energy costs.

Remember, the key to effective winterization is being proactive and thorough.

At Green Attic, we understand that some winterization tasks can be complex or time-consuming.

That's why we offer professional services to help you prepare your home for winter efficiently and effectively.

Our Energy Audit service can identify areas where your home is losing heat, allowing for targeted improvements.

For those hard-to-reach areas, our Infrared Attic Camera Assessment can detect hidden issues that might be compromising your home's energy efficiency.

Don't wait until the first frost to start winterizing. Begin early in the fall to ensure your home is fully protected before winter sets in.

If you're unsure about any aspect of winterizing your home or need professional assistance, contact Green Attic today.

Our team of experts is ready to help you create a warmer, more energy-efficient home for the winter season.

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