The days are getting shorter, the air is crisp and your warm boots are back in action. As you dig out your toques and mittens, remember: your home needs a little TLC too! Doing a few checks now can save you big headaches later on. Here’s how to prepare your property so you can enjoy winter worry-free.
Inspect your doors and windows
According to Hydro-Québec, up to 25% of heat loss is caused by air leaks and poor insulation. These issues can really drive up your heating bill. A quick inspection can make a big difference. Here’s what to do.
For windows, it’s easy: on a cold day, run your hand around the frame. If you feel a draft, it could be due to gaps in the seal or turbulence caused by temperature differences. Either way, installing weather stripping can help reduce air leaks. And if you notice cracked frames or serious wear, it might be time to think about new windows. Find out about eight common window problems and how to solve them.
Doors are a little different. Try this trick: close the door on a sheet of paper. If it slides out easily, it’s time to change your weather stripping. And if you spot cracks between the door and the frame or in the glass, replacing the door could be the smarter move.
Getting a quote from our specialized Verified Contractors can help you decide which route to take.
Check your heating and ventilation
Once your doors and windows are properly sealed, you can turn your attention to your heating and ventilation.
Dust off your electric baseboard heaters to prevent that burnt smell when you first turn them on. If you have an air exchanger, clean the filters. Washable filters can be cleaned with hot water and mild soap.
If you have a fireplace, you should have your chimney swept before winter. Some municipalities require this annually to help prevent fires. For best results, hire a professional certified by Quebec’s heating professionals association.
Remember to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace the batteries and dust them regularly. They’re easy to overlook, but they can save lives.
Want to lower your heating bill? Upgrade to smart thermostats or an energy-efficient system. Programmable devices help you control the temperature and optimize your energy consumption.
Need to repair your heating, ventilation or air conditioning system? Find a qualified contractor with our HomeExpress service.
Clean your gutters and check the roof
Clean your gutters so water drains properly. Consider installing rain guards to prevent debris from building up and reduce the risk of damage. Make sure your gutters are stable. Venturing up to the roof during winter to make repairs isn’t a pleasant experience. Make sure your downspouts are directing water away from your home. Sometimes adding an extension is all it takes.
Next, take a look at your roof. If you have a sloped roof, look for damaged shingles—they can cause leaks. If you see a lot of damage, it might be time for a full replacement. You’ll want to contact a professional roofer.
Also check your attic for signs of moisture or condensation, which could indicate roofing issues that require prompt action.
Check exterior walls and drainage
Look for cracks in brick and foundation walls. Water can seep in and expand when the mercury drops. Seal small cracks with concrete repair sealant or mortar repair sealant for brick walls. For bigger issues, contact one of our Verified Contractors.
Also, check around your foundation for low spots where water might accumulate. If you see any, fill them with soil.
And make sure your French drain is working properly.
This helps prevent water from leaking into your house when the snow melts. There are signs you can look out for to know when it’s time to replace your French drain.
Prepare your outdoor water line and secure the area around your home
There are a few more small things left to do to get your home ready for winter. Pay particular attention to your outdoor water line. If you aren’t careful, you’ll end up with a burst pipe. You can’t just turn off the tap. You need to drain the water line and then close the value.
Autumn isn’t the ideal season for pruning trees, but it’s still a good idea to remove branches that could be dangerous. Trim any branches that could fall under heavy snow, especially near power lines. But be careful, Hydro-Québec recommends staying at least three meters away from medium-voltage lines.
It’s also important to make sure your stair railings are solid and check that your outdoor lights are working properly. Fixing these issues now reduces slip hazards when ice forms.
Car shelters
Your final task? You may want to install a temporary car shelter, if needed. Or, if you have room in your budget, consider a permanent carport or garage to avoid the hassle of a seasonal setup! All done! Now you can head inside and get warm and cozy.
Proper maintenance can help keep your property in top shape for years to come. And when spring rolls around, check out our article Preparing your home for spring: What to check? It has a downloadable checklist for your spring cleaning!
