If you’re new to home ownership, you may think that finding a house, getting approved for a mortgage, and closing were the hardest parts of laying down roots. And while buying a home is a big accomplishment, it’s just the beginning! To keep your dwelling in tip-top shape for years to come, you’ll need to outsmart its biggest threat: the weather. Luckily, there are plenty of things you can do to keep its structure safe and your utility costs low—and most of them don’t require contractor-level skills.

1. INSULATE, INSULATE, INSULATE.

Whether you live in a cold region of the country or a warm one (or both!), insulating your attic and basement is one of the best things you can do to keep heating and cooling costs down. Upkeep is minimal: Every spring and fall, do a spot check to make sure there aren’t cracks or gaps allowing outside air in (and inside air out).

2. GET TECHY.

Installing a programmable thermostat that automates indoor temperature is an easy way to save about $180 a year in heating and cooling costs. Decide if you want a unit with remote access, i.e., smart home technology, or without. If you’re replacing your old thermostat, it’s easy to do yourself; if you’re putting in an entirely new system, hire a pro.

3. PAINT YOUR HOME RIGHT.

Exterior paint is the first layer of defense against the elements. Harsh UV rays can cause paint to crack and peel, while extreme temperatures force the surface covering your home to expand and contract. In areas of the country where rain and humidity abound, moisture can seep into paint, causing mold, mildew, and algae to take root. Fortunately, the right paint, formulated for the conditions where you live, can make all the difference. Valspar® Reserve ® Extreme Weather Paint + Primer with SeasonFlex™ Technology forms a flexible bond with your home’s exterior throughout summer and winter; Valspar® Reserve ® Extreme Weather Paint + Primer with SunStopper™ Technology refracts light while neutralizing harmful UV rays; and Valspar® Reserve ® Extreme Weather Paint + Primer with RainRelief™ Technology forms a watertight bond with your home, while the included mildewcide fends off unwanted nasties.

4. GIVE YOURSELF A NEW OUTLET.

This is a tiny, easy thing to do, which makes it perfect whether you rent or own your place. Wave your hand in front of outlets to see if air is coming through. If yes, install a foam outlet gasket. They’re inexpensive and easily removable, so you can even take them with you if you move.

5. ALLOW YOURSELF TO VENT.

Yes, your home needs ventilation, especially around the dryer, over the stove and in the bathroom. But don’t allow air to escape. Look for a magnetic cover for your kitchen exhaust fan and an internal flapper for your bathroom fan to handle moisture. As for the dryer, be sure the external vent has a flap over it—and check it periodically to make sure it remains lint-free.

6. TREAT YOUR FLUE.

Yes, that real fireplace is quaint. When it’s not in use though, its chimney is also letting warm air out, as it’s designed to do. Always remember to close the flue when you don’t have a fire going. And if you’re just moving in, contact a professional to check the chimney’s physical state. They’ll examine it from roof to hearth, and may also install a balloon that inflates automatically underneath the flue to keep air from escaping. It will also deflate when there’s heat present, allowing the chimney to do its job.

7. STRATEGIZE YOUR REMODEL.

In some cases, weatherproofing your home requires more than keeping rain out and the right temperatures in. If you’re building or remodeling a home in a flood or tsunami zone near the ocean, consult an architect that specializes in extreme weatherproofing. Living areas can be raised, glass can be fortified and classic shingles can be replaced with composite tiles for ultimate gust and downpour protection.

Finally there’s a paint formulated to stand up to the extreme weather where you live. New Valspar® Reserve® Extreme Weather Paint and Primer in three regional, weather-specific formulas: SeasonFlex™, SunStopper™ and RainRelief™ . Find the one for you exclusively at Lowe’s or go to Valsparpaint.com/ExteriorPaint to learn more.