Get Your Home Ready Before the Coldest Months Hit
Oregon winters are wet, windy, and long. A little prep now protects your home from moisture damage, drafts, and seasonal wear — especially in the Pacific Northwest where rain does most of the heavy lifting. Here’s a quick, practical checklist to get your home winter-ready.
1. Check Your Roof
Your roof is your main shield against winter weather. Even small leaks can lead to major moisture problems later. The Insurance Institute for Business & Home Safety notes that early roof repairs significantly reduce the risk of interior water damage. Do a quick visual check for loose shingles, moss, or damaged flashing. If something looks off, schedule an inspection before heavy rain sets in.
2. Clear Gutters and Downspouts
Clogged gutters cause water to spill into siding, foundations, and roof edges — a common issue in Oregon’s rainy season. Oregon State University Extension warns that blocked gutters are one of the top contributors to home moisture problems. Make sure everything drains freely and extends several feet from your foundation.
3. Control Indoor Moisture
The EPA recommends keeping humidity between 30–50% to prevent mold growth. Use exhaust fans, seal gaps around windows and doors, and keep crawl spaces dry. If windows are fogging up daily, your home needs better airflow or dehumidification.
4. Improve Insulation & Seal Drafts
Good insulation keeps your home warm and reduces energy loss. The U.S. Department of Energy recommends checking attic and crawl space insulation before winter hits. Weatherstrip doors, seal window gaps, and insulate exposed pipes in colder areas.
5. Test Safety Devices
Winter means more indoor heat use. Make sure smoke detectors, CO detectors, and fire extinguishers are in good shape. The U.S. Fire Administration also recommends cleaning dryer vents to reduce fire risk.
6. A Winter-Ready Home Lasts Longer
Small tasks make a big difference in Oregon’s climate. A quick check of your roof, gutters, insulation, moisture levels, and safety systems keeps your home protected through the coldest months.
