10 Ways to Winterize Your Home in Westmoreland County

Winters in Westmoreland County can be brutal. Between the freezing temperatures, heavy snow, and ice storms, your home takes a beating every year. Here at Wultsch Remodeling, we see the aftermath every spring — and most of it is preventable with a little fall prep work.

1. Inspect and Clean Gutters

Clogged gutters cause ice dams, which can damage your roof and lead to interior leaks. Clear out leaves and debris before the first freeze, and make sure downspouts direct water away from your foundation.

2. Seal Gaps Around Windows and Doors

Older homes in Greensburg and the surrounding area often have gaps around windows and door frames that let cold air in and heated air out. A tube of caulk and some weatherstripping can save you hundreds on heating bills.

3. Check Your Furnace

Have your furnace inspected and the filter replaced before heating season. A dirty filter makes your system work harder and can even be a fire hazard.

4. Insulate Exposed Pipes

Pipes in unheated spaces like basements, crawl spaces, and garages are at risk of freezing and bursting. Foam pipe insulation is cheap and easy to install.

5. Inspect Your Roof

Look for missing or damaged shingles, cracked flashing, and any signs of wear. A small roof repair now prevents a costly leak later.

6. Reverse Ceiling Fans

Most ceiling fans have a reverse switch. Running them clockwise on low pushes warm air that rises back to the ceiling down into the room.

7. Test Smoke and CO Detectors

With furnaces, fireplaces, and space heaters running, winter is peak season for carbon monoxide incidents. Test every detector and replace batteries.

8. Drain Outdoor Faucets

Disconnect hoses, drain outdoor spigots, and shut off the interior valve feeding exterior faucets to prevent frozen pipes.

9. Stock Up on Supplies

Keep ice melt, a snow shovel, and an emergency kit on hand. Greensburg winters can bring sudden storms.

10. Schedule a Handyman Walkthrough

Not sure where to start? James and the Wultsch Remodeling team offer home maintenance walkthroughs. We'll identify issues before winter hits and fix them at our fair $50/hour rate. Call 724-221-2149 to schedule yours.