Winterization Checklist: How to Prepare Your Wayne Craft Sunroom for Winter

Oct 9, 2025

Winter in Michigan can be harsh, and your sunroom is especially exposed to snow, ice, and freezing temperatures. Proper winterization protects your investment, keeps the space comfortable, and prevents costly damage. This guide provides step-by-step instructions for both three-season and four-season Wayne Craft sunrooms, along with tips for optional awnings and railings.

Understanding Your Sunroom: Three-Season vs Four-Season

  • Three-Season Sunrooms: Designed for spring through fall, these rooms typically have lightweight frames, screens, or sliding glass panels. Winter prep focuses on sealing drafts, adding insulation, and providing temporary heat if you plan to use the space. 
  • Four-Season Sunrooms: Engineered for year-round use, these rooms have insulated frames, double-pane windows, and are designed to withstand snow loads. Winterization ensures HVAC systems, seals, and hardware continue performing efficiently. 

Tools You’ll Need 

  • Screwdriver set 
  • Silicone-based lubricant 
  • Mild dish soap, soft sponge, and brush 
  • Squeegee & microfiber cloth 
  • Weather-seal caulk 
  • Soft broom and vacuum 
  • Storage covers or padded blankets 
  • Hygrometer/dehumidifier (if needed) 
  • Ladder 

Step 1: Inspect Your Sunroom 

Walk the perimeter and check for: 

  • Loose screws or brackets 
  • Cracked or missing caulk 
  • Damaged panels or glass
    Early detection prevents more costly winter damage. 

Step 2: Clean Glass, Frames, Surfaces, and Screens

  • Wash windows with mild soap and water; squeegee dry. 
  • Remove and rinse screens; scrub gently with soapy water and let dry completely. 

Step 3: Winterize Your Three-Season Sunroom

  • Seal Drafts: Apply caulk to gaps; add weatherstripping around windows and doors. 
  • Add Insulation: Hang thermal-insulated curtains, lay thick rugs or carpeting, and optionally install clear vinyl sheeting or storm panels over windows/screens. 
  • Provide Heat: Use a portable electric space heater safely, or install baseboard heaters for consistent warmth. 
  • Protect Furniture & Plants: Move sensitive plants indoors and cover furniture with weather-resistant tarps. 
  • Maintain the Space: Clean thoroughly and circulate warm air with a ceiling fan. 

Step 4: Winterize Your Four-Season Sunroom

  • Test heating and thermostat/PTAC units 
  • Inspect insulated frame and window seals 
  • Check ceiling or attic vents for proper airflow 
  • Clean window tracks and sliding door rollers 

Step 5: Routine Maintenance

  • Inspect and reseal caulking or flashing as needed 
  • Lubricate tracks, hinges, and locks 
  • Sweep floors and check drainage under the sunroom 

Need a quick way to stay on track? Download the Winterization Checklist (PDF) for a full list of maintenance items.

Step 6: Manage Humidity and Ventilation 

  • Keep humidity below 50% to prevent condensation 
  • Use a dehumidifier if needed 
  • Ventilate the room periodically if heaters are in use 

Awnings and Railings

While your primary focus is the sunroom, small steps can also protect awnings and railings: 

  • Wash and rinse with mild soap and water for your aluminum awnings and railings 
  • Tighten hardware and inspect for rust or damage 
  • Brush snow off railings with a broom (avoid metal tools) 
  • Avoid heavy snow removal from awnings; they are engineered for snow loads 

Final Step: Safety and Insurance 

  • Photograph any storm or snow damage 
  • Contact Wayne Craft for repair guidance and insurance documentation. 
WC-winterization-checklist-combined

Proper winterization protects your Wayne Craft sunroom, awnings, and railings from the harsh winter months while keeping your home safe, energy-efficient, and comfortable. By taking the time to inspect, clean, and maintain each component, homeowners can prevent costly damage, extend the life of their investment, and enjoy peace of mind throughout the season. 

Whether you have a three-season sunroom that you want to continue using, a four-season room built for year-round comfort, or custom awnings and railings that improve your home’s exterior, following these winterization steps helps make sure everything is ready to withstand snow, ice, and cold temperatures. 

For homeowners who prefer professional guidance, the team at Wayne Craft in Livonia, MI, is available to provide expert advice, answer questions, or schedule service to make sure your home is fully winter-ready. 

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