Cold weather will be here before you know it, and a little preparation now can help you avoid bigger problems once temperatures drop. From protecting outdoor faucets to sealing drafts around doors and windows, a few simple projects can make your home more comfortable and better prepared for winter.

Ace Hardware of Fort Collins has the supplies you need to tackle some of those easy winterizing projects before the first freeze.

Protect your outdoor faucets

One of the easiest places to start is outside. Freezing temperatures can cause water in outdoor pipes to freeze and expand, potentially leading to pipe damage or ruptures. The Frost King Foam Faucet Cover Protector provides insulation around outdoor faucets to help protect them from freezing wind and cold temperatures.

The cover is easy to install. Simply place the loop around the faucet handle, pull the cord and lock it in place. It is a small step that can provide some extra protection before winter arrives.

Seal drafts around doors and windows

If you can feel cold air coming through a door or window, weather stripping can help. M-D Building Products EPDM Rubber Foam Weather Stripping Tape creates a seal around doors and windows to help reduce drafts.

It is an easy project that can make a noticeable difference in rooms that tend to feel chilly during the winter.

Add another layer of window insulation

For windows that let in a little more cold air, the 3M Clear Plastic Window Insulation Kit adds another layer between your home and the outdoor temperatures. The clear film is designed to help reduce drafts and cold air coming through windows while still letting natural light in.

It is especially useful for older windows or rooms that tend to feel colder than the rest of the house.

Get your home ready before the first freeze

Winterizing does not have to mean taking on a huge list of home improvement projects. A few simple updates can help protect your home and make those cold days a little more comfortable.

Stop by Ace Hardware of Fort Collins for the supplies you need to get your home winter ready before the temperatures drop.