As a longtime Central Indiana homeowner and Realtor, I’ve seen how a little prep now can prevent big headaches once the temperatures drop. I put this checklist together to help you tackle the right weekend projects—inside and out—so your home stays warm, efficient, and protected all winter. If you need trusted local pros, I’m happy to connect you.
— Tim Houterloot
As temperatures dip across Central Indiana, a few smart weekend projects can save you from frozen pipes, drafty rooms, and surprise repair bills. Use this practical checklist to get your home winter-ready—inside and out.
Quick Timing Guide (Central Indiana)
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Late September–October: Gutters, exterior sealing, HVAC service, lawn & irrigation, fireplace inspection.
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November: Hose bib covers, draft fixes, filter changes, attic check, weatherstripping.
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Deep Winter (Dec–Feb): 30-day filter swap, ice-dam watch, room-by-room draft touch-ups.
Outdoor Preparation
1) Roof, Gutters & Drainage
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Clean gutters and downspouts; add gutter guards if trees overhang the roof.
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Ensure downspouts discharge 4–6 feet away from the foundation with splash blocks or extensions.
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From the ground, look for missing shingles, lifted flashing, or sagging spots that invite leaks and ice dams.
2) Seal the Envelope
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Walk the exterior and caulk gaps around window/door trim, utility penetrations (cable, gas, AC lines), and siding seams.
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Replace cracked weatherstripping on exterior doors; add a door sweep if you feel air at the threshold.
3) Protect Water Lines
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Disconnect hoses and drain them; shut off and bleed exterior hose bibs (if they’re not frost-free).
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Install insulated faucet covers; wrap any exposed pipes in unheated spaces (garage, crawl, exterior walls).
4) Yard & Hardscape
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Rake leaves away from the house to reduce moisture against the foundation.
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Winterize irrigation (blow-out or drain) and store sprinklers.
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Stock ice melt (pet/plant-safe if needed) and check you’ve got a good snow shovel or blower ready.
5) Fireplace & Chimney
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Schedule a chimney sweep/inspection if you burn wood or haven’t serviced your unit in 1–2 years.
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Check damper operation and spark screens; store seasoned wood off the ground, covered on top, open on the sides.
Indoor Preparation
6) Heat System Tune-Up
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Furnace service (clean, inspect, test safety controls).
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Replace the filter now, then set a reminder to change every 30–60 days through winter.
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If you have a humidifier, clean pads and set RH to 30–40% to reduce static and keep rooms comfortable.
7) Thermostat & Zones
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Program setbacks: ~68°F when home/awake, lower at night if comfortable.
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Verify smart thermostat schedules match your real routine; use geofencing if available.
8) Attic & Insulation
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Quick check: if you can see joist tops easily, you likely need more insulation.
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Typical target for our region: ~R-49 to R-60 in the attic.
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Seal attic bypasses (can lights, plumbing stacks) with foam/caulk before adding insulation.
9) Draft Defense
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Use foam outlet/switch gaskets on exterior-wall plates.
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Add window film kits or interior storms on the draftiest panes.
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Use thermal curtains and make sure they close at dusk.
10) Plumbing & Appliances
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Insulate water heater and hot-water lines in unconditioned spaces.
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Test sump pump (lift float, confirm discharge). Consider a battery backup.
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Vacuum dryer vent and verify exterior flap opens freely.
11) Safety Check
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Test and replace batteries in smoke and CO detectors (one on every level, near bedrooms).
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Keep a fire extinguisher (rated ABC) accessible; review how to use it.
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Create or update a simple storm kit (flashlights, batteries, blankets, phone chargers).
Energy & Comfort Upgrades (High-Value, Low-Hassle)
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LED bulbs throughout (especially exterior fixtures and frequently used rooms).
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Smart power strips for TVs/game consoles to reduce standby draw.
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Rope caulk for quick, removable window sealing on the coldest rooms.
Realtor’s Corner: Prep That Pays Off
Even if you’re not selling this winter, these steps help protect value and show well later:
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A clean roofline and dry basement = fewer inspection flags.
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Efficient, well-maintained mechanicals reassure buyers.
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Document your fall service (HVAC, chimney, insulation) and keep receipts for buyer confidence.
Central Indiana Winter Prep: Mini Checklist
