Key Prep Steps for Autumn and Winter in Indiana

Fall in Southern Indiana means changing weather, frost, and windstorms, which all stress your home’s vulnerable areas. Rather than repeating general tips, we’re going deeper into often-overlooked zones specific to our region’s soil, freeze patterns, and home styles. Use this checklist to winter-proof your home more robustly.

1. Crawl space and basement vapor barrier & ventilation

Many Indiana homes have crawlspaces or basements that serve as conduits for moisture and cold air.

• Inspect the vapor barrier lining your crawlspace floor; patch any rips or gaps.
• Ensure foundation vents are operable and seal them after the first frost arrives to keep moisture out.
• Check for and seal rim-joist insulation gaps with spray foam or rigid board.
• If needed, consider a crawlspace dehumidifier to reduce moisture before it migrates upward.

2. Check Paint, Stain & Caulking on Exterior Surfaces

Your home’s exterior is its first line of defense against harsh winter weather. Paint and stain not only make your home look great, they protect siding, trim, and wood surfaces from moisture damage.

• Inspect trim, siding, and fascia boards for peeling or bare spots.
• Touch up paint before snow and ice can penetrate exposed wood.
• If you have a deck, fall is the perfect time to apply a protective stain or sealant to help it resist moisture and prevent splitting in the cold.

Taking care of these details now prevents rot and extends the life of your exterior surfaces.

3. Exterior lighting & hardware winterization

Exterior fixtures and hardware can corrode in freeze-thaw cycles, leading to hidden water entry points.

• Remove and clean porch lights, sconce fixtures, and sconces; check seals and gaskets.
• Re-lube outdoor door locks with silicon spray (not oil) so they don’t freeze.
• Inspect shutters (if present) and ensure mounting hardware is secure and not rusting.
• Replace or reseal metal door thresholds and weather strips, especially on south- and west-facing doors exposed to driving rain/wind.

4. Tree limbs, roof overhangs, gutter proximity

Snow and ice loading plus wind can push tree limbs into your roof or siding.

• Trim branches that overhang or brush too close to the roofline, especially near gutters or vents.
• Examine roof eaves, overhangs, and soffits for bird or rodent damage; reinforce vulnerable spots.
• Move rock beds or landscaping away from gutter downspouts so splash back doesn’t reach siding or foundation.

5. Specialty sealing: doors/garage + utility penetrations

Focus your effort where there are breaks in the building envelope.

• Inspect weatherstripping around garage doors and replace bottom rubber seal if cracking.
• Around exterior penetrations (e.g. cable, plumbing vents, dryer vents, external outlets) check that caulk or foam seal is intact. Replace it with exterior-grade silicone or polyurethane.
• Install insulated exterior outlet covers (for GFCI or external plugs) so cold air doesn’t leak in.
• Inspect attic knee walls or side walls (if house has living space along attic edges) for gaps around wiring or plumbing.

By focusing on these crawlspace, chimney, hardware, and penetration zones now, you reduce the chances of cold drafts, ice damage, and water intrusion later. If any of the painting and staining tasks feel too technical or you’d prefer a pro, CertaPro Painters Southern Indiana is ready to inspect, seal, and protect your home before winter sets in.

Schedule a free painting estimate today!