When the first snowflakes start to fall in Wisconsin, there’s no better feeling than stepping into a warm, comfortable home that’s ready to take on the cold. However, if your home feels drafty or your energy bills rise as the temperature drops, it may be time to make a few key upgrades before winter arrives.
At Stebnitz Builders, we have spent decades helping homeowners across southern Wisconsin create spaces that are both functional and beautiful — especially for managing our Midwest winters. Here are our top remodeling tips to keep your home cozy, efficient, and prepared for the season ahead.
Seal in the Warmth: Insulation and Windows That Work
One of the main causes of heat loss is poor insulation or old, inefficient windows. Adding or upgrading insulation in your attic, basement, and exterior walls can greatly boost your home’s comfort and reduce energy waste.
If your windows are old or you feel a chill when standing near them, consider replacing them with energy-efficient double- or triple-pane windows with low-E coatings. These help keep indoor warmth inside while blocking out the cold, making you more comfortable and lowering your heating costs.
Pro Tip: Proper installation is just as important as the product itself. Our team ensures every window and wall system is sealed tightly, so your heat stays exactly where it belongs — inside.
Warm From the Ground Up: Heating System Upgrades
If you’ve been dreaming of stepping onto a warm bathroom floor on a cold morning, radiant floor heating could become your best friend. This upgrade offers comfort and consistent warmth, especially in bathrooms, basements, or tiled areas.
Also, consider installing a high-efficiency furnace or a smart thermostat to improve your home’s temperature control. Modern systems let you set heat levels based on your schedule—keeping your home warm when needed and saving energy when you're away.
Design for Comfort
Warmth isn’t just about temperature — it’s about how a space feels. Natural wood tones, soft textures, layered lighting, and thoughtful design choices can make your home feel cozier all winter long.
A remodel offers the perfect opportunity to add a fireplace or feature wall, expand gathering areas, or enhance your home’s layout for entertaining. Whether you're hosting family during the holidays or relaxing by the fire on a quiet night, a well-designed space makes every winter moment more enjoyable.
Energy Efficiency That Lasts Year-Round
Winter improvements don’t just pay off for a few months — they can make your home more efficient all year round. Smart thermostats, proper insulation, and high-efficiency windows help regulate temperatures in summer too, reducing your cooling costs and extending the life of your HVAC system.
Think of these upgrades as long-term investments in comfort, sustainability, and your wallet. Over time, the changes you make today will impact your savings on utility and maintenance costs.
Plan for Next Season
Even if you’re not ready to begin a major remodel right now, winter is an ideal time to plan your next project. Our design team can assist you in exploring ideas, refining layouts, and getting a head start on spring construction schedules — so your remodel begins smoothly when the weather warms up.
Your Home. Your Comfort. Our Expertise.
Getting your home ready for winter doesn’t have to be stressful. With the right improvements, you can make a space that’s warm, inviting, and energy-efficient — season after season.
At Stebnitz Builders, we’re here to help you achieve that. Whether it’s installing new windows, a cozy bathroom remodel, or a complete home redesign, our team is ready to turn your vision into reality.