Now that fall is officially here, many Canadians are busy enjoying all that the season has to offer. Between admiring the colour-changing leaves on a cool evening stroll and baking pies made with freshly picked apples, prepping for winter may be at the bottom of your fall to-do list. However, using the last of the year’s warmer weather to prepare your home for winter cold could spare you a lot of trouble once the weather starts to turn.
Here are five things you can do in the fall to get your home ready for winter.
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Shut off and drain your outdoor water system.
To prevent pipes from freezing once the temperature drops, turn off your outdoor water system’s shut-off valve and disconnect any hoses. Then, drain the hose bib and valve completely. Leave the hose bib valve open for the winter so any water that enters will drain rather than freeze. If you have an outdoor watering or sprinkler system, drain it according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
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Clear out gutters and downspouts.
A clogged gutter could cause water to back up and freeze. Use a clear fall day as your opportunity to clear out your home’s gutters and downspouts and schedule any necessary repairs. Cut back overhanging trees or vegetation that could drop additional debris in your roof’s draining system once the weather starts to turn.
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Mow and clear your lawn.
Piles of leaves and lawn clippings can create the perfect winter refuge for unwelcomed guests like insects and rodents. Leftover yard waste can also result in mould and other fungal issues once the snow starts to fall. Give your lawn a shorter clipping than usual as the end of the season approaches and clear away large piles of leaves and debris, especially in the areas around your home’s foundation.
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Ensure your heating system is in good working condition.
You don’t want to find yourself on a cold winter’s night with a broken heating system. Now’s the ideal time to call in a trusted professional for a routine inspection and necessary tune-ups. Replace dirty filters and dust all heating vents in your home. Seal any exterior air leaks that could expose your home’s interior pipes to freezing temperatures. If you have a wood-burning fireplace, call a professional to inspect it and take the time to brush up on your fireplace safety.
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Get your roof winter-weather ready.
Determine how susceptible your roof is to snow and ice buildup by the degree of its slope. Generally, the flatter the roof, the more at risk it is. Have a professional inspect it thoroughly and complete any repairs before winter starts.
Follow the steps on this helpful infographic to ensure your home is fit to withstand winter’s harsh weather conditions.
Enjoy your cozy fall and winter evenings at home with the peace of mind that you, your home and your belongings are covered. If you have questions about your existing home insurance coverage, contact your OTIP broker at 1-888-494-0090. If you would like to get a quote for home insurance, connect with an OTIP broker today at 1-888-892-4935.