Home improvement projects for winter can be the ideal way to spend your time. Winter isn’t the time to put away your tools. There are numerous projects you can tackle during the fall and winter months that can not only help you transform your home, but also aid in reducing your costs. Add these five to your must-do list.

1. Seal your home’s walls, windows and doors. With the cold air, it is easy to feel areas where leaks are present just by running your hand along the frames. Use a high-quality caulk to caulk any areas of air leaks. An infrared thermometer can help pinpoint them for you. Don’t forget to seal around light fixtures set into the wall or ceiling, too.
2. Add insulation. HVAC companies work all year long and can help you to accomplish this task during the winter months. You may want to spend a few extra minutes learning about air blown insulation and other materials to determine which is best for your home.
3. Talk to your HVAC team about an energy audit. Winter is the ideal time to conduct this project because you’re using your heating system. Then, tackle any areas of risk shown on the audit.
4. Make your home smart. Smart home systems can do a wide range of things for you from adjusting your home’s thermostat to monitoring your home for CO2 levels, fire, and smoke. They can also help provide security.
5. Tackle clutter. Clutter is one of the biggest risks for fires or falls. If your home is more packed with items than it should be, this season is the perfect time to get more organized.

Whether you hope to paint your home’s walls on a warmer day or you are planning to tackle your garage, there are plenty of home improvement projects you can do during the winter months. Because the weather often keeps you indoors, plan projects for the interior of your home. And, if you don’t feel like getting the tools out now, make this your planning season so that when spring hits, you’re ready to go.