How to Winterize Your Home to Keep the Heat In and the Cold Out

7011813378 • November 8, 2022

How to Winterize Your Home to Keep the Heat In and the Cold Out

At the first hint of a chill in the air, many homeowners in cold-weather regions start thinking about the inevitable arrival of expensive winter heating bills. As the temperatures drop, the cost of keeping your home warm and cozy can quickly climb - leaving you with a budget-busting expense.

But before you get snowed in by sky-high bills, there are a few simple steps you can take to prepare your home for an energy-efficient (and more affordable) winter season. From tackling some basic maintenance tasks to making smart upgrades to your space, learning how to winterize your home can make a significant difference for both your budget and your comfort.

Continue reading for a list of the best ways to winterize your home, including the easy tips that every homeowner should know now.

Winter might not officially start until mid-December, but for those of us living in the colder regions of the U.S., the chilly weather is already upon us. That means that it’s time to pull out our warmest coats, turn on the heater, and get the snow shovel out of storage - but what about preparing your home for the winter season?

For most people, rising energy bills are among the biggest frustrations that come with this time of year. And although you might not be able to stop the temperature from dropping, you can take steps to improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your seasonal heating costs.

We’re breaking down the essential steps you should take to winterize your home so that you can stay warm, cozy, and on budget.


1. Set your ceiling fans to rotate clockwise.

For many of us, ceiling fans are something we only use during warm weather. But did you know that they can also come in handy throughout the winter months?

When a ceiling fan spins clockwise, it creates an updraft that moves warm air around the room. Because warm air rises, using the fan in this way helps redistribute the air to help make you feel warmer.


2. Clean air ducts and replace air filters.

Over time, the dust that collects in our air ducts and filters can negatively impact the efficiency of our central air and heating system. So, it’s a good idea to make it a habit to regularly change out the air filters and clean air ducts.

Ensuring that your heating system can work as effectively as possible can help lower your bill, as well as help you avoid potential problems in the future.


3. Make sure your home is well-insulated.

Depending on when (and how) your home was built, the quality of your insulation can vary considerably. Without proper insulation, cold air can pass easily into your home - and the heated air can exit it.

Fill in the areas around any basement and attic windows and doors using high-quality insulation, as well as empty spaces in the attic floor and/or basement ceiling. This will improve heat retention throughout the home.


4. Seal any gaps or cracks.

Even small gaps in your siding, doors, and windows allow heat to escape. Do a thorough assessment of your home to find any gaps, then fill them with caulk to create a secure seal. For an extra level of protection, you can also remove interior moldings around doors and windows, then apply caulk around those edges as well.

If you find any cracks that are allowing drafts to come through, act quickly to get them repaired. Also, consider adding weather-stripping to doors that have gaps at the bottom, or, replace the doors entirely for a better fit.


5. Get exterior repairs taken care of as soon as possible.

If your to-do list includes repairs on the exterior of your home - such as replacing damaged siding - now is the time to knock those out. Not only can exterior issues allow unwanted drafts and heat loss, but they can also end up getting much worse due to winter storms.

Get Ready for Winter with Help from the Professionals

There are plenty of things you can do to winterize your home, even if you aren’t a particularly skilled DIY enthusiast. However, there are also several jobs that are better left to the professionals - so when you’re making smart improvements for the winter season, make sure you have a repair and remodeling team you can trust.

Final Touch Construction & Remodeling provides a wide variety of home services throughout Northeast Ohio, ranging from water damage repair to full-scale renovations for basements , bathrooms, kitchens, and more. Whether you want to replace your siding to get ready for winter storms or would like to create a more comfortable, stylish interior for hosting holiday gatherings, the skilled team from Final Touch Construction & Remodeling is ready to help.

Get more information about what to do to winterize a home when you contact Final Touch Construction & Remodeling today!

August 7, 2025
As the school year kicks off, your schedule likely fills up fast—early morning drop-offs, packed lunches, after-school activities, and work deadlines. The last thing any family needs during this already hectic season is a surprise roofing emergency. A leaking roof or sudden structural issue doesn’t just disrupt your day; it can cost you time, money, and peace of mind. At Final Touch Construction, we believe prevention is the best protection. Here’s how you can stay one step ahead of costly roofing issues and ensure your home stays safe, dry, and worry-free this school year. โœ… 1. Schedule a Pre-Fall Roof Inspection Late summer is the perfect time to schedule a professional roof inspection. Our trained experts at Final Touch Construction can identify and address small issues before they turn into big, expensive problems—like missing shingles, clogged gutters, or weakened flashing. ๐ŸŒง 2. Clear Gutters & Downspouts Leaves aren’t the only thing falling in autumn. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under your shingles, leading to leaks or ice dams when the temperature drops. Keep water flowing freely by clearing debris now—or ask us about our gutter maintenance services. ๐Ÿ  3. Check Your Attic for Warning Signs Sometimes, roof issues start from the inside. Take a few minutes to inspect your attic for: Signs of moisture or mold Daylight shining through roof boards Sagging insulation or wood If you notice any of these red flags, give us a call right away. ๐Ÿ’จ 4. Address Storm Damage Promptly Northeast Ohio weather can be unpredictable. If your area was hit by summer storms, don’t delay—what looks like minor damage today can quickly escalate. Our team offers fast, reliable repair services to keep your roof strong and storm-ready. ๐Ÿ“š 5. Don’t Wait Until There’s a Leak Roof leaks rarely happen overnight. They usually start small and go unnoticed—until water starts dripping on your homework or soaking your ceiling. Routine maintenance now can prevent costly repairs and major disruptions later. ๐ŸŽ’ Make the Smart Choice Before School Gets Busy Before the chaos of the school year takes over, give your roof the attention it deserves. A proactive inspection and maintenance from Final Touch Construction can save you stress and money—and give you peace of mind all season long. ๐Ÿ“ž Call us today to schedule your fall roof check-up and protect what matters most—your home and your family.
August 7, 2025
As the kids gear up with fresh notebooks and new backpacks, it’s a clear sign that summer is winding down -and fall is just around the corner. While you're prepping your family for a successful school year, don't forget about prepping your home, too -especially your roof. Just like your children need a strong foundation for learning, your home needs a sturdy, well-maintained roof to take on the changing seasons. Final Touch Construction is here to help you get your home in top shape with this Back-to-School Home Maintenance Checklist - because fall weather waits for no one. ๐Ÿ‚ Final Touch’s Back-to-School Home Maintenance Checklist 1. Roof Inspection 101 Before the first leaf falls, schedule a professional roof inspection. Summer storms, UV rays, and heavy rains may have caused wear and tear. Final Touch Construction offers thorough inspections to catch minor issues before they become costly repairs. What to look for: Missing or curling shingles Sagging or soft spots Granules in the gutters Moss or algae growth 2. Clean Out Those Gutters Falling leaves are charming—until they clog your gutters. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up under shingles or overflow near your foundation. Clean them out now and avoid water damage later. Pro Tip: Ask us about gutter guard installation to make this chore easier year-round. 3. Check for Flashing Failures Flashing around chimneys, vents, and skylights can degrade over time. If it's cracked, rusted, or loose, it could lead to leaks. Final Touch Construction can reseal or replace damaged flashing to keep your home watertight this fall and winter. 4. Seal Up Drafty Spaces Like zipping up a hoodie before the bus arrives, your home needs insulation and sealing to stay cozy. Check attic insulation, seal gaps around windows and doors, and consider weatherproofing any exposed areas. 5. Trim Back Overhanging Branches Trees that grew over the summer might now be hanging dangerously close to your roof. One windy fall storm could bring down limbs—and serious damage. Protect your home by trimming trees and clearing away debris from your roof. ๐ŸŽ’ Prep Your Home Like You Prep Your Kids Think of this checklist like your child’s school supply list. You wouldn’t send them off without pencils and a backpack—so don’t head into fall without checking in on your roof. Final Touch Construction is Northeast Ohio’s trusted partner for residential roofing, repairs, inspections, and peace of mind. Whether you're facing minor issues or in need of a full roof replacement, we’ve got your back like a favorite school hoodie. ๐Ÿ Ready to Schedule Your Fall Roof Inspection? Reach out to Final Touch Construction today and cross “home maintenance” off your seasonal to-do list. Because when it comes to protecting your biggest investment, there's no better time than now. ๐Ÿ“ž Call us at 216-282-1030 ๐ŸŒ Visit Final Touch Construction Online ๐Ÿ“ Serving homeowners across Northeast Ohio with expert care and craftsmanship.
By Final Touch Construction July 10, 2025
Summer in Northeast Ohio brings sunshine, warm breezes—and the perfect time to tackle those essential exterior home improvement projects. Your roof, gutters, and siding work overtime protecting your home from harsh winters and stormy springs. Now’s the time to give them the attention they deserve before fall weather rolls in. At Final Touch Construction , we’ve been helping Northeast Ohio homeowners protect their investments for years. Here’s our expert guide on where to focus your efforts this summer: ๐ŸŒž Roof TLC: Protect What Covers It All After months of snow, ice, and heavy rains, your roof deserves a check-up. Summer heat can also cause shingles to expand, crack, or curl. โœ… Inspect for Missing or Damaged Shingles Look for areas where shingles are loose, missing, or cracked. Addressing these early can prevent costly leaks. โœ… Check for Flashing and Ventilation Issues Proper ventilation is key to keeping your attic cool and your energy bills low during hot summer months. โœ… Schedule a Professional Inspection Sometimes, the warning signs aren’t obvious. Let the pros at Final Touch Construction assess your roof’s condition before problems worsen. ๐ŸŒง๏ธ Gutter Maintenance: Keep the Rain Flowing Away Summer thunderstorms can drop a lot of water in a short time. If your gutters aren’t ready, you could be facing foundation problems or water-damaged siding. โœ… Clear Out Debris Leaves, twigs, and last year’s grime can clog your gutters and downspouts. โœ… Check for Leaks and Proper Drainage Make sure water is flowing away from your home and not pooling near your foundation. โœ… Consider Gutter Guards Reduce future clogs with professionally installed gutter guards that keep leaves out but let water in. ๐Ÿก Siding Refresh: Boost Curb Appeal and Protection Your siding is your home’s first line of defense against Northeast Ohio’s unpredictable weather. โœ… Inspect for Cracks or Warping Summer is the ideal time to replace damaged panels and protect your home from moisture intrusion. โœ… Power Wash for a Fresh Look A professional cleaning removes built-up dirt, mold, and mildew, making your home look like new. โœ… Upgrade for Efficiency Consider modern siding options that improve insulation and reduce energy costs year-round. Ready to Tackle Your Summer Projects? Don’t let small issues turn into big headaches. At Final Touch Construction , we’re here to help you protect and beautify your home, whether it’s a quick fix or a full exterior makeover. ๐Ÿ‘‰ Schedule your free estimate today! Let’s make sure your home is summer-ready—and beyond.
By Brought to you by your local roofing experts at Final Touch Construction July 10, 2025
Hi there! I’m your friendly neighborhood roof shingle. You probably don’t think much about me unless something goes wrong, but let me tell you, life up here on your roof is no vacation—especially in the summer. Picture this: it’s July in Northeast Ohio. Birds are chirping, sprinklers are whirring, and I’m baking like a cookie on a baking sheet. You folks down below might be lounging in air conditioning or sipping lemonade on your patio, but up here? I’m battling blazing sunshine, scorching temperatures, and the occasional rogue squirrel using me as a landing pad. My Daily Summer Struggles: โ˜€๏ธ Morning Wake-Up Call: I start the day cool and collected, enjoying the sunrise over Lake Erie. But as the morning sun climbs higher, I can feel the heat building... and building... and building. ๐ŸŒก๏ธ Midday Meltdown: By noon, my surface temperature can soar over 150°F! You think YOU’RE hot mowing the lawn? Try sitting still on a rooftop, absorbing every ounce of sun. I work hard to protect your home by reflecting UV rays and keeping rain and storms at bay. But man, it’s exhausting. ๐ŸŒฉ๏ธ Storm Squad: Let’s not forget those sudden summer thunderstorms that roll in out of nowhere. One minute I’m sweating, the next I’m bracing for pounding rain and whipping winds. I can’t complain too much—it’s my job to take the heat (and the hail), after all. ๐ŸŒ™ Cooling Off (Sort Of): At night, it finally cools down, but here’s the kicker—those constant temperature swings between blazing heat and chilly nights can wear me down over time. Cracks, warps, and loosened granules... it’s rough out here. My Summer Wish List: (Hint: Final Touch Construction can help with all of this!) ๐Ÿ” A Roof Inspection: A quick check-up from the pros at Final Touch Construction makes sure I’m still in tip-top shape. Their team will spot any cracked or curling shingles like me and replace them before the next storm hits. Schedule your free roof inspection today! ๐Ÿงน A Clean-Up Crew: Debris like branches and leaves trap moisture and heat. Give me a break—call Final Touch Construction to remove debris safely and keep your roof performing its best. ๐Ÿ’ฆ Gutter Love: Clogged gutters? Not my problem... until they overflow and water backs up under me. The experts at Final Touch Construction can clean and repair your gutters to keep water flowing where it should. [Ask about gutter services!] ๐Ÿ›ก๏ธ Future Friends: If I ever do retire, please replace me with high-quality, weather-resistant shingles installed by Final Touch Construction , the company Northeast Ohio homeowners trust for craftsmanship and care. Get a roofing quote now! So next time you step outside and squint up at your roof, maybe give me a little wave of appreciation. I’ve got your back (and your attic) all summer long. Stay cool out there, Your Roof Shingle ๐Ÿ”จ Protect your home this summer with Final Touch Construction . โœ”๏ธ Free Roof Inspections โœ”๏ธ Expert Repairs & Replacements โœ”๏ธ Trusted by Northeast Ohio homeowners Contact us today to get started!
By 7011813378 June 16, 2025
Summer in Northeast Ohio brings long days, warm sunshine, and unfortunately, some serious wear and tear on your roof. While it may not be as obvious as snow or ice damage in the winter, summer weather can be just as harsh on your home’s first line of defense.
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As summer heats up, so does firework season — and while those bursts of light in the sky can be beautiful, they may also bring unexpected risks to your home. At Final Touch Construction , we often get asked: “Should I worry about fireworks and my roof?”
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As the cold grip of winter loosens its hold on Northeast Ohio, many homeowners are eager to shake off the frost and prepare their homes for the warmer months ahead. One crucial but often overlooked task during this transition? A thorough spring roof inspection. If you haven't scheduled yours yet, now is the perfect time to act — and here's why.
By 7011813378 March 6, 2025
As winter fades and spring arrives in Northeast Ohio, homeowners eagerly welcome the warmer days and the promise of summer. However, the transition from winter to spring isn’t always smooth. The region is notorious for its unpredictable temperature swings—sunny and warm one day, freezing and snowy the next. While these fluctuations may seem like a minor inconvenience, they can have a significant impact on the exterior of your home, especially your roof. Final Touch Construction is here to help you manage your roofing needs this Spring!
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If you’re planning to catch a mischievous leprechaun this St. Patrick’s Day, a well-designed trap is essential. While most focus on the bait and the trapdoor, the experts at Final Touch Construction know that the roof is a critical yet often overlooked element. A well-constructed roof not only camouflages your trap but also entices the leprechaun to investigate further. Here’s how to build the best roof for a leprechaun trap that increases your chances of success!