There is a nip in the air, the leaves are changing colour, Starbucks is selling Pumpkin Spice Latte, you are picking out your dog’s Halloween costume…you know what that means… WINTER IS COMING.
We always recommend that homeowners are proactive and get their home and yard ready, before it is too late. Our Canadian climate can be hard on things, it is best to be well-prepared in order to avoid potential issues down the line.
Fire Safety
- Change of season is a great time to check the batteries on your smoke detectors
- Check fire extinguishers and replace or recharge if needed
- Ensure your carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly
HVAC & Heating System
- Clean or replace furnace filters to ensure efficient operation
- Inspect and clean ductwork for dust and debris to improve airflow
- Ensure heat tape around water pipes is functioning properly to prevent freezing
- Test the thermostat to make sure it’s working correctly
Plumbing
- Inspect pipes for leaks, especially around sinks, toilets, and under the home
- Shut off outdoor water supply – drain hoses and store them to prevent freezing
- Check water heater – check user manual to confirm proper maintenance
In the Garage
- Check for things that don’t freeze well (paint, caulking, and anything else that may have made its way into the garage through the summer)
- Drain lawnmower & tune up the snowblower
- Gear up for winter with salt or sand and other items you might need
Exterior & Yard Prep
- Protect outdoor furniture and store pillows inside to protect from weather damage
- Clean up those leaves
- Clean your gutters and check downspouts are directing water away from the home’s foundation
- Look for cracks, dents or loose panels in siding
- Check windows, doors and seams to make sure the seals and weather stripping is in tact to prevent water leakage
- Check and seal gaps around windows, doors, and skirting to prevent rodents and pests from entering
- Install mesh screens over any vents to keep out animals
- Inspect decks & steps – check for any loose or rotting boards and repair as needed
Roof maintenance
- Homes with roof pitches and shingles – should check the integrity of your shingles
- Home owners who are in older mobile homes with flat roofs should look at re-sealing or recoat with some regularity
- Ensure roof vents are clear to promote proper air circulation
Foundations
- Skirting should be ventilated or you could run into issues with humidity
- Check that skirting is intact so critters can’t get in and to prevent drafts
- Fall is a great time to check the levelling on your home – homes on blocking can settle over time – if the home is not level, it can lead to structural issues; consider professional re-leveling if necessary
- If the home is on a basement or piling foundation, check for any shifts or settling in the foundation or supports
- Inspect the underside of the home for tears or damage to the underbelly – repair any holes or gaps that may let in cold air or animals.
- Ensure insulation under the home is intact and sufficient to keep the home warm during colder months
We hope this checklist will help ensure that your home is well-maintained and prepared for the colder months. If we can be of any support, don’t hesitate to reach out.