Start Before the Cold Hits
Oregon falls are beautiful. That is, until that first cold snap reminds you the gutters still need cleaning and the furnace hasn't been serviced since spring. Getting ahead of winter prep now can save you from costly repairs (and unpleasant surprises) once the rain and frost settle in.
A Quick Fall Home Checklist
- Inspect the roof and gutters. Clear leaves and debris before fall storms roll in, and check for loose or damaged shingles.
- Seal drafts. Weatherstripping around doors and windows is a small investment that keeps heating costs down all winter.
- Service the furnace or heat pump. A quick tune-up now beats an emergency repair call in January.
- Check insulation in the attic and crawl spaces. Oregon's damp winters make good insulation essential for both comfort and preventing moisture issues.
- Drain and cover outdoor spigots. Protect your pipes from freezing before the first hard frost.
When the To-Do List Gets Bigger Than the Budget
Some winterization projects — a new roof, upgraded insulation, replacing an aging furnace — go beyond a weekend project and a trip to the hardware store. That's where your home's equity can help.
A Home Equity Loan or Line of Credit (HELOC) through CWCU lets you:
- Borrow against the value you've already built in your home, often at a lower rate than credit cards or personal loans.
- Tackle bigger projects now instead of waiting and risking a bigger problem (and bigger bill) mid-winter.
- Choose the option that fits your project: a lump-sum home equity loan for a one-time expense, or a flexible HELOC if you're tackling a few projects over time.
Prep Now, Relax Later
A little maintenance in the fall means fewer headaches when the temperature drops. And if a bigger project is on your list this year, your CWCU team can help you find the financing option that fits your budget and your home's needs.
Ready to talk winterization financing? Stop by any CWCU branch, call us at 541-928-4536, or visit us online at centralwcu.org to explore your home equity options.
Your home is used as collateral for Home Equity Loans and HELOCs. Subject to credit approval. Membership eligibility required. Equal Housing Lender.