3 Things to Know about Winter Home Repairs in Vermont

Cold weather is on its way, and for many Vermont homeowners that means a familiar worry: Will my home keep us warm, and what will it cost? The good news is that a few well-timed steps can make a real difference in comfort and in your heating bills. Better still, you don't have to figure it out alone.

1. Start with air sealing and insulation

A well-sealed, well-insulated home uses less energy, which can lower heating costs all winter. If you're not sure where your home is losing heat, an energy audit can show you. A home energy audit, such as the Heat Squad program, pinpoints heat loss and gives you a prioritized plan for air sealing, insulation, and window upgrades.

Tip: Begin with the biggest and most affordable fixes, like gaps around doors, attic hatches, and basement rim joists. Then plan larger projects.

2. Don't wait on repairs that affect safety and warmth

Some problems get more costly, and more urgent, once temperatures drop. Heating and hot-water systems, roofs, electrical and plumbing issues, and wells or septic systems are the most common critical repairs. Addressing them early keeps your home safe and livable.

Sometimes a repair has to come first. Efficiency Vermont offers a Home Repair for Weatherization rebate for eligible repairs that would otherwise block weatherization, such as certain electrical or foundation problems. Check the current eligibility rules before you plan the work.

Tip: Get a contractor quote early. Good contractors book up quickly once the cold arrives.

3. Help is available, and it's local

Many Vermonters don't realize there are grants and affordable loans for home repair and energy upgrades. NeighborWorks Alliance of Vermont members can help with job costing, bids, inspections, referrals, and funding.

Here are a few resources:

The NEK Home Repair Program: Offers grants up to $10,000 and/or low interest loans for income qualified homeowners in the NEK to address health & safety related repairs, weatherization, or accessibility updates. 

Efficiency Vermont Home Energy Loans: Financing for weatherization and heating projects, including 0% interest for low- and moderate-income households.

NETO Weatherization Program: Free weatherization services for households in the NEK meeting income guidelines or for households receiving benefits such as Reach Up, Seasonal Fuel Assistance or SSI.

Not sure where to begin? Call our Home Repair Team at 508-535-3555.

Ready to get started? Visit ruraledge.org/home-repair or email homeownership@ruraledge.org