As winter marches on and on and temperatures drop deep this season, we hope to keep the tips coming to keep your homestead humming!
Around the Home – Check Foundations:
Rake away all debris and edible vegetation from the foundation of your home.
Seal up entry points to keep small animals from crawling under the house.
Tuck-point or seal foundation cracks. Mice can slip through space as thin as a dime.
Inspect sill plates for dry rot or pest infestation.
Secure crawlspace entrances.
Around the Garden – Time to Mulch:
Apply winter mulch to perennials where winter temperatures generally fall below minus 10 degrees F.
Simply lay lightweight cover of organic mulch, such as shredded autumn leaves, pine needles or straw, over beds to protect plants from winter’s extremes.
Avoid more compact mulches and whole leaves (which can mat), since they can suffocate plants. This leaves slimy ground and is not a good cover.
For the Animals – Extra Comfort:
Lay down extra bedding so that animals can rest in warmth and comfort.
Straw, tree bark or wood shavings provide a soft surface to sleep on as well as additional insulation.
Don’t use rugs or rags–they can absorb liquids and freeze. Those are not comfortable when wet!
So….now that you’ve braved the weather to check around the homestead…go grab some hot cocoa and snuggle by that fireplace! Take care of yourself too!
Best Blessings!
The Millers
Donna Miller is an author, teacher and entrepreneur. Her favorite roles are that of wife and mother to three home-school graduates. The Millers own and operate Millers Grain House which offers Chemical Free and Organic Grains, Grain Mills, Bread Machines, Grain buckets, Bosch Mixers, the NutriMill, , recipes and more.
Popular Questions
How does Winterizing Wednesday – Foundation, Cover and Comfort help prepare a homestead for cold weather?
Begin by checking the foundation of each shelter, outbuilding, and living space for cracks, gaps, standing water, or shifting soil. Add weather-resistant barriers where needed, then inspect roofs, doors, windows, and vents for areas that allow drafts or moisture inside. These steps create a drier, more stable base before adding extra coverings or comfort measures.
What should you inspect first during Winterizing Wednesday – Foundation, Cover and Comfort?
Start at ground level and look for drainage problems, exposed foundations, loose skirting, and openings where cold air or pests can enter. Move upward to check wall coverings, roof edges, windows, and doors for damage or missing seals. Repair the most urgent leaks and gaps before temperatures drop and winter conditions make the work harder.
How can you improve cover and insulation with a Winterizing Wednesday – Foundation, Cover and Comfort routine?
Use durable covers, intact weatherstripping, and appropriate insulation to reduce drafts without blocking necessary ventilation. Secure tarps, blankets, or protective panels so wind cannot lift them or trap water against wood and masonry. Keep insulation dry, and leave safe airflow around heaters, vents, electrical equipment, and animal shelters.
How can Winterizing Wednesday – Foundation, Cover and Comfort make winter spaces more comfortable?
After addressing the foundation and exterior cover, reduce drafts around frequently used doors and windows with fitted seals or draft guards. Keep floors dry and add washable, insulating bedding or rugs where people or animals rest. Check the space regularly for condensation, damp materials, blocked vents, or signs that the added coverings need adjustment.