🏠 Fall & Winter Home Prep: Your Essential Checklist from Reliable General Contracting

Dan Kaplan
As the days get shorter and the temperatures start to drop here in Pennsylvania - it’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the upcoming fall and winter seasons. At Reliable General Contracting HQ, we’ve seen firsthand how early preparation can save homeowners from costly repairs, energy loss, and discomfort during Pennsylvania’s coldest months.

Here's your reliable checklist to make sure your home is ready to handle the chill — inside and out.
✅ 1. Inspect Your Roof & Gutters
Pennsylvania winters can be rough on roofs. Before the first snow hits:
  • Check for missing, cracked, or curling shingles
  • Look for signs of leaks in your attic or ceilings
  • Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams
  • Ensure downspouts drain away from your foundation
💡 Pro Tip: Have a professional do a thorough roof inspection before winter storms hit. It could save you thousands in emergency repairs.
✅ 2. Seal Windows & Doors
Drafts higher energy bills. Now’s the time to:
  • Replace worn weather stripping and caulk gaps
  • Check for cracked or broken windows
  • Consider upgrading to energy-efficient windows
If your windows or doors are old and leaking air, Reliable General Contracting can help with affordable, professional replacements that look great and improve insulation.
✅ 3. Check Your Heating System
A warm home starts with a functioning heating system. Be sure to:
  • Schedule a furnace or boiler inspection
  • Replace filters and clean vents
  • Test your thermostat and consider upgrading to a smart model
  • Inspect your chimney and fireplace for safe operation
💡 Don't wait until it's freezing to find out your heat isn’t working!
✅ 4. Inspect Exterior Surfaces & Siding
Cold temperatures and moisture can wreak havoc on your home’s exterior. Check for:
  • Cracks or gaps in siding
  • Peeling paint or exposed wood
  • Damaged trim or flashing around windows and doors
✅ 5. Winterize Outdoor Spaces
Before the snow flies:
  • Shut off exterior water lines and drain outdoor faucets
  • Store garden hoses and cover hose bibs
  • Clean and store patio furniture
Inspect decks and porches for loose boards or railings - contact us if you need a repair!
✅ 6. Attic & Insulation Check
Heat rises — and escapes through an under-insulated attic.
  • Look for signs of poor insulation or ventilation
  • Check for moisture or mold, which could signal roof issues
  • Ensure soffits and vents are clear of debris
✅ 7. Foundation & Basement Prep
Water intrusion and frozen pipes can be serious winter issues.
  • Seal cracks in the foundation
  • Make sure your sump pump is working
  • Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated areas
  • Check for dampness or musty smells — signs of leaks
Let Reliable General Contracting HQ Help You Winter-Proof Your Home

At Reliable General Contracting HQ, we’re proud to serve Royersford, PA and surrounding communities with trusted, local expertise. Whether you need a deck repair, window replacements, insulation upgrades, or full interior maintenance, our team is here to ensure your home stays safe, warm, and energy-efficient all winter long.

📞 Call us today to schedule a free inspection or estimate.
🛠️ Reliable service. Reliable results. That’s our promise.

Serving Royersford and Nearby Areas, Including: Limerick, Collegevile, Phoenixville, Pottstown, Oaks, Trappe, Spring City, Skippack....and more....