As the cold, rainy months of the Pacific Northwest approach, it's time to make sure your home is ready for whatever the weather throws at it.

In our experience with Bellingham construction, homeowners in this climate really only face two challenges:

1. Keeping the heat inside your home
2. Keeping the water outside your home

We’ve put together a guide to help you get your home winter-ready, so you can stay cozy when it's dark at 4pm and misty all day long. 

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1. Seal Any Drafts you Feel!‍

Cold drafts sneaking in under doors and around windows can make your home feel like an icebox. Not only do drafts make you uncomfortable, but they also raise your energy bills as your heater works overtime.

Quick Fixes:

• Add weatherstripping to windows and doors.
• Use draft stoppers at the base of doors.
• Re-caulk any areas where you feel cold air seeping in.

Long-Term Solution:‍

Consider replacing old, drafty windows with energy-efficient models. As we covered in our previous post, this can significantly reduce your energy bill.

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2. Inspect and Clean Your Gutters

We want the water traveling away from your home. 

Northwest fall and winter means consistent (albeit mostly light) rain, and your gutters are your home’s first line of defense. Clogged gutters can lead to water overflowing and seeping into your roof, walls, and foundation, causing serious damage.

Quick Fixes:

• Clear out leaves, debris, and dirt from your gutters and downspouts.
• Ensure your downspouts direct water away from your foundation.

Pro Tip:
Inspect the gutters when we have some nice sunny days left. If you can, run a hose down your gutters to simulate rainfall and make sure the flow is going where you want it. 

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3. Check Your Roof for Leaks

Rainy weather is no friend to a damaged roof. Even small leaks can turn into big problems when constant moisture is involved. Before the heavy rains set in, inspect your roof for any signs of damage.

Quick Fixes:

• Look for missing or broken shingles.
• Check for any sagging areas or standing water.
• Inspect the flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights for any gaps.

Long-Term Solution:‍

If your roof is older or has sustained significant damage, consider hiring a professional to assess whether it's time for repairs or even a full replacement.

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4. Service Your Heating System

Murphy's law: Furnaces wait until it's least convenient to have issues. 

The last thing you want in the dead of winter is a heating system that decides to go on strike. Regular maintenance will keep it running efficiently and help avoid costly breakdowns.

Quick Fixes:

• Change out your furnace filter to improve airflow and efficiency.
• Schedule a professional HVAC inspection to check for any underlying issues.
• Test your thermostat to ensure it’s working correctly.

Pro Tip:‍

Your furnace may not need to be replaced, you might just need maintenance! At a fraction of the cost, it can keep your furnace running smoothly, like a mechanic before a road trip. 

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5. Insulate Exposed Pipes

A $10 run to Hardware Sales for foam and tape may save your winter. 

Burst pipes are one of the most common issues homeowners face in the winter, especially when temperatures drop unexpectedly. Exposed pipes in unheated areas like basements, crawl spaces, and garages are particularly vulnerable.

Quick Fixes:

• Wrap exposed pipes with foam pipe insulation or heating tape.
• Disconnect and drain any outdoor hoses, and shut off outdoor faucets if possible.

Pro Tip:‍

If you live in a particularly cold part of Bellingham, let faucets drip during freezing nights to prevent water from freezing in the pipes.

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6. Trim Overhanging Tree Branches

Those tall, majestic trees in your yard may be beautiful, but when the wind picks up, they can become a serious hazard. Winter storms have a way of snapping branches, which can damage your roof, windows, or even cars.

Quick Fixes:

• Trim back any branches that overhang your house or driveway.
• Check for dead or weakened trees that might not survive a strong windstorm.

Pro Tip:‍

Regular tree maintenance will not only help protect your home but also encourage healthy tree growth, so it’s a win-win. 

Conclusion

The Pacific Northwest may be known for its rain and cold, but with a little preparation, you can keep your home safe, dry, and cozy all winter long. From sealing drafts to trimming trees, a few simple steps now can prevent bigger problems later on.

Not sure where to start or need help with any of the tasks on this list? Give us a call or drop us an email. We’re happy to suggest any tips or answer questions for winterizing your home for the Bellingham rainy season. 

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