It’s that time of the year again to dust off the warm coats, bring out the snow shovel and enjoy the magic of the Winter season. But before even considering heading into the joys of making a snowman or tobogganing, it is imperative as a homeowner or renter to prepare for the below-zero temperatures.
While this may take some time, many of the best measures are easy and free. In this month’s blog, we look at home maintenance tips so you can spend those cold days warm and cozy.
Avoid Frozen Pipes
Water has a unique propensity to expand as it freezes. This expansion puts tremendous pressure on pipes whether plastic or metal, causing them to freeze or break.
Ensure you maintain an adequate temperature and air circulation throughout the house during the Winter season to avoid this happening. Do not turn off the heat completely, even when leaving the house for a prolonged period of time.
Check for Leaks and Drafts
Leaks and drafts coming in through cracks in walls, doors and windows can prevent proper heating and increase energy bills. If your energy company doesn't provide a home energy audit, perform one yourself. Here are a few ways to seal leaks and drafts:
- Put caulking, foam or weather stripping around moving doors and windows.
- Use bubble wrap or a window insulator kit to seal up windows you won't be using.
- Add a storm door to reduce heat loss at the main entrance.
Feed and Maintain Your Lawn
While your lawn may not require as much work and care during the winter months as compared to the Summer, Spring and Fall, it is important that it is not ignored. As the temperatures drop, the grass stores so you should fertilize and aerate your lawn before snowfall. If you have not heard of aerating, check out this site that explains more about it: How to aerate your lawn.
Raking the leaves will also prevent diseases from spreading.
Prepare Your Deck and Stow Away Patio Furniture
Give your deck a good wash in the Fall to get rid of debris and mould and store away your patio furniture including the smaller items such as the cushions, umbrellas. You can also protect them by using weatherproof covers.
Maintain Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
Regularly checking your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors is a must all year round, but especially important during winter when heaters, fireplaces and stoves are used more often. Ensure that the batteries also have full power.
Prepare Your Snow Blower
Service your snow blower and ensure it is ready to go when the first snowfall arrives. You may need to replace the spark plug and top the engine oil.
You will also need snow shovels, ice melt, salt, mitts, toque, and other cold-weather essentials.
Keep fire safety in mind!
According to the Canada Mortgage and Housing Corporation (CMHC) website, “home fires tend to increase in the winter months. The main reasons are a malfunction of the heating system or a fireplace that is left unattended. Fireplaces and chimneys need regular cleanings to remain safe and effective. Also, check all emergency exits and ensure they are unobstructed. Make sure fire extinguishers are maintained and kept in easily accessible locations.”
Team
