Living in Summit County, Colorado, means bracing for harsh winters with heavy snowfall, freezing temperatures, and high winds. As a home inspector, I’ve seen firsthand how proper winterization can protect your home from costly damage and keep it energy-efficient. Here are key tips to prepare your Summit County home for winter, based on common issues I encounter during inspections.
1. Insulate Pipes to Prevent Freezing
Summit County’s sub-zero temperatures can wreak havoc on plumbing. Uninsulated or exposed pipes in crawlspaces, basements, or exterior walls are prone to freezing and bursting. Inspect your plumbing and wrap exposed pipes with foam insulation or heat tape, especially in unheated areas like garages or attics. Pay attention to outdoor spigots—shut off their water supply and drain them completely. A burst pipe can cost thousands in repairs, so this step is critical.
2. Seal Air Leaks and Boost Insulation
High-altitude homes lose heat quickly if not properly sealed. Check for drafts around windows, doors, and vents using a candle or thermal leak detector. Apply weatherstripping or caulk to seal gaps, and consider upgrading to energy-efficient window seals if yours are outdated. Inspect your attic insulation—Summit County homes should have at least R-49 insulation (about 15-18 inches of blown-in fiberglass or cellulose). Inadequate insulation leads to heat loss and skyrocketing energy bills, which I see often in older homes.
3. Service Your Heating System
Your furnace or boiler is your home’s lifeline in winter. Schedule a professional HVAC inspection to ensure it’s running efficiently. Replace filters, clean vents, and check for carbon monoxide leaks—a critical safety concern in tightly sealed homes. Radiant floor heating systems, common in Summit County, should be flushed and checked for leaks. I’ve seen neglected systems fail mid-winter, leaving homeowners in the cold, so don’t skip this step.
4. Protect Your Roof and Gutters
Heavy snow and ice dams are major culprits of roof damage in Summit County. Inspect your roof for loose shingles or weak spots, as snow accumulation can exploit these vulnerabilities. Clean gutters to prevent ice buildup, which can cause water to back up and damage your roof or siding. Consider installing heat cables along roof edges to prevent ice dams, a common issue I note in inspections of mountain homes.
5. Prepare for Snow Removal
Summit County’s snowfall can exceed 150 inches annually, so ensure your property is ready. Inspect your snow removal equipment—snowblowers, shovels, or plows—and stock up on ice melt. Check that your driveway and walkways have proper drainage to avoid ice buildup. During inspections, I often see decks and railings damaged by heavy snow, so clear these areas regularly to prevent structural stress.
6. Chimney and Fireplace Maintenance
Wood-burning fireplaces are popular in Summit County, but a neglected chimney can be a fire hazard. Have your chimney swept to remove creosote buildup, and inspect the flue for blockages or damage. Ensure the damper seals tightly to prevent heat loss. I’ve flagged many chimneys for excessive creosote, which can ignite and cause devastating fires.
7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Winter increases the risk of carbon monoxide poisoning due to furnace use and sealed homes. Test all detectors and replace batteries. Place carbon monoxide detectors near bedrooms and heating sources. This is a non-negotiable step—every inspection I conduct includes verifying these lifesaving devices are functional.
Winterizing your Summit County home isn’t just about comfort; it’s about protecting your investment and ensuring safety. As a home inspector, I’ve seen minor oversights lead to major repairs, from flooded basements to collapsed decks. Take the time now to prepare—your home (and wallet) will thank you when the snow starts piling up. If you’re unsure about your home’s condition, consider hiring a local home inspector familiar with Summit County’s unique climate challenges to guide you through the process.
