How to Winterize Your Home: A Guide to Save on Insurance
By Lauren Pezzulo
As we kick off the new year, it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months. If you take a few simple steps now, you can protect your home from the harsh winter weather, ensuring it remains a safe and warm sanctuary throughout the frosty season. Winterizing your home is also a way to create a more energy-efficient living space, while reducing the risk of costly repairs and insurance claims down the line.
Ready to save money this winter? Let’s dive into some easy ways to start the new year off right—with a warm, secure, and energy-efficient home.
How Winterization Can Affect Home Insurance Premiums
Taking the time to winterize your home is a smart way to save money in the long run. For one, it makes your home more energy-efficient, which can cut your heating costs by 10-20%. On top of that, insurance companies like it when you take steps to protect their property. By winterizing your home, you’re lowering the risk of damage, which can lead to lower monthly premiums. Many insurance companies will even offer discounts or special rates for homeowners who proactively maintain their homes, especially against seasonal risks like winter. Here are some of the most effective ways to do just that.
- Insulate your pipes. Winter can take a heavy toll on your plumbing system. As the temperatures drop, the water in your pipes—especially those that are exposed or in unheated areas like basements and garages— can freeze and expand, which might make them burst. The result? Not only a significant amount of water damage, but higher utility costs as well, from all that wasted water. But here’s a simple fix to keep those pipes secure. Wrap your pipes with foam insulation so that the cold doesn’t affect the temperature of the water within your plumbing. This will keep your water flowing, and it’s a budget-friendly way to avoid big repairs and insurance claims.
- Clean your gutters and downspouts. Your gutters and downspouts play a big role in keeping water away from your home’s foundation and preventing flooding. When winter hits, leaves, sticks, and debris can accumulate in the gutters and downspouts, blocking the water flow. When you add in snow and ice, the flow of water through your gutters can be redirected to seep into your home. That’s why it’s so important to clean them out regularly. Taking this simple step can help you avoid costly water damage and flooding—and those dreaded insurance claims.
- Inspect your roof. Your roof’s primary job is to protect your home from the elements, so it’s wise to inspect it before winter storms roll in. Check for issues like missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or leaks, as these can allow melted snow and ice to seep into your home, leading to water damage and potential insurance claims. If you spot any issues, don’t wait—call in a pro to get it fixed as soon as possible.
- Seal your windows and doors. Drafty windows and doors can let cold air sneak in, making your heating system work overtime. The result? Your home will be more chilly and less energy-efficient—and also more prone to water damage. Use weatherstripping or caulk to seal these gaps around windows and doors to keep the cold air out. Not only will this help your heating system run more smoothly—it’ll also save you money on those energy bills. And the best part? Your home will feel so much cozier all winter long!
- Shovel the snow and ice your sidewalk. After it snows, make sure to clear off as much as you can from your walkways, driveways, doorsteps, and carports. It’s not just about convenience—it’s also about safety. Keeping these areas clear helps prevent slips and falls, which could lead to injuries or even lawsuits. Don’t forget to use rock salt, too! Snow often hides a layer of ice underneath, so spreading salt can help prevent ice from forming—and keep things safer for everyone in your home.
Do I Need More Home Insurance Coverage for Winter?
Winterizing your home goes beyond just sealing windows and insulating pipes—it also involves making sure that your insurance coverage aligns with the challenges that winter may bring. By reviewing your policy and making a few key updates, you can be better prepared to handle any winter-related challenges. Here’s a quick guide to help you assess your coverage and make sure you’re protected.
- Understand your policy. Make sure your policy adequately covers winter risks like snow, ice, and freezing temperatures—and address any gaps before winter arrives. Talk to your insurance agent about making any necessary adjustments or additions, such as increased limits or endorsements for winter-related risks.
- Check your policy for emergency coverage. Read through your policy to ensure you have emergency assistance and rapid response coverage to handle issues like power outages, fallen trees, or burst pipes.
- Make sure you have loss-of-use coverage. If winter damage makes your home unlivable, this coverage can be a life-saver. Loss-of-use coverage pays for the cost of temporary housing, ensuring that you and your family have a safe, warm place to stay while repairs are underway.
- Document your home. Proper documentation is key when it comes to insurance claims. Before winter storms arrive, take photos and create a detailed inventory of your home and all your valuables. This can make the claims process much quicker if you ever need to file for winter-related damage.
Invest in Your Home With Affordable Home Insurance
Navigating home insurance can feel pretty overwhelming, but free quotes simplify the process by breaking it all down into manageable steps. They provide clear comparisons, which makes it easier to understand your options and choose a policy tailored to your needs and budget. Whether you’re updating your policy for winter risks or exploring new providers, take advantage of our free online home insurance quotes and get your coverage in just minutes.Michael Giusti, MBA, is Senior Writer and Analyst for InsuranceQuotes.com
