Fall is the time to prepare your home for another Quebec Winter. During a time when many of us are working remotely and at home handling critical tasks all day, that’s even more reason to ensure you’re winter-ready.
We’ve put together a list of tasks you should plan to undertake before winter arrives, so you can be comfortable, and able to function effectively even amid the harshest of winter storms.
1. Have Your Chimney Inspected
The most obvious reason to have your chimney inspected? Because Santa needs to be able to make it down, of course. The second most obvious? If you’re planning to have a fire in your home during the winter, you need to make sure the chimney is safe and won’t create a fire or smoke problem. Have a professional check and clean your chimney. They should remove soot and dust; check for blockages and furry or feathery friends that may have taken up residence. They will also make recommendations for repairs or replacement if needed.
2. Prepare Your Plumbing
A burst pipe can lead to some very costly damage, which is why it’s so important to make sure your plumbing is ready for winter. That means turning off and draining your outdoor faucets, checking your system for leaks, and insulating any exposed pipes that could freeze. When it comes to the latter, focus on unheated areas (such as your garage) and plumbing that sits close to exterior walls.
3. Check Your Gutters
Once the leaves have fallen and before the first snow, check to make sure your gutters are properly secured – replacing gutter spikes and downspout rivets where needed – and clear of debris. If your gutters are full of debris, it can lead to water backing up against the house and overflowing, which can cause potential damage to roofing and siding. Also adjust downspouts so they direct water at least 5 feet from the house, which can help prevent melting snow from saturating the ground around the house and causing foundational damage.
4. Insulate Doors and Windows
Feel around door and window frames leading to the outside. Is there a breeze? If so, it’s time to install (or replace) the weather stripping. You may also want to seal windows with cheap yet effective weather strip film.
5. Organize your Garage
We all know the perks of parking your car in the garage, especially on a snowy winter morning. However, that can be difficult with all of your outdoor equipment packed into a tiny space. It’s important to assess your space and prepare appropriately. Maintain a functional storage space by keeping equipment you use daily, like shovels and snow blowers in a spot that’s easy to access. Organizing a Moving Sale can also help you get rid of unwanted items.
Taking the time to winter-proof your home is a small price to pay especially if it helps prevent damages. Now is also a good time to stock up on all the winter essentials too including salt, sand, and snow shovels. It won’t go to waste and you’ll need them before you know it. It’s not easy to enjoy a winter wonderland when your home is icy on the inside. Spend a little time following these tips for winter home prep, so you can stay warm when cold winds blow through!
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