Protect Your Home Before the First Freeze | Coulee Bank

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Protect Your Home Before the First Freeze

A few simple chores this fall can help homeowners catch small problems before snow, ice, and freezing temperatures make them harder and more expensive to fix. Here’s a fall checklist to give your home a practical seasonal check-in.


“Homeownership always comes with a to-do list, but staying on top of seasonal maintenance is one of the simplest ways to take care of your home and protect the investment you’ve made in it,” says Kris Farwell, SVP, Director of Mortgage at Coulee Bank. Tackle these relatively simple tasks before they become larger, more expensive issues.”


Start with your heating system. Test your furnace or heat pump before you depend on it daily, replace dirty air filters, and consider scheduling a professional tune-up. A professional tune-up can help identify small issues early and keep your system running smoothly throughout the heating season. It may also reduce the chance of an unexpected breakdown during a cold snap.


Remove leaves and debris from gutters and downspouts. Make sure water flows freely and is directed away from your foundation. Also take a close look at your roof, siding, and exterior trim for damage. Small gaps or damaged areas can allow water in and become bigger problems once snow and ice arrive.

“Fall is an ideal time to walk around your property with a fresh set of eyes,” Farwell says. “Look for drafts around windows and doors, signs of water damage, or places where pests could enter. Addressing those items early can help safeguard both your home and your peace of mind.”


Inspect windows and doors for air leaks. Adding weatherstripping or caulk can help keep warm air inside and reduce drafts. Homeowners should also disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior water supply valves, where applicable, to help prevent frozen pipes.


Finally, do not overlook safety. Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors, replace batteries as needed, and check manufacturer expiration dates. If you use a fireplace or wood-burning stove, arrange for a qualified professional to inspect and clean the chimney before the first fire of the season.


“Your home is so much more than a place to live. It’s often one of your most significant financial assets,” Farwell says. “Taking time for routine upkeep is an important part of protecting that asset for years to come.”