The days are getting even shorter (thanks to the time change we are all adjusting to!), and the mornings and evenings are certainly getting much cooler. A couple of weeks ago, we discussed some tips on how to prepare your home on the inside for winter. This week, it is time for us to turn our attention to preparing the outside of your home for the wintry weather months looming ahead.
So, without further ado, let’s get started!
Turn off the water
First things first, you want to make sure you disconnect all your hoses and drain the excess water from your taps. Water will freeze as the temperatures drop below zero, which can cause your pipes to burst; something we know you don’t want to deal with! Turn off all your outside taps and store your hoses in your garage or storage shed/room for the winter.
Tidy your gutters
Cleaning out your gutters is key to ensure water can be properly drained and moved away from your home. If your gutters are clogged, you run the risk of water damage to your home, which can be an expensive and messy problem to fix. You also want to make sure your drain spout is extended away from your home, so that water will not pool around the frame of your home.
Check the exterior
Before the snow falls, if you can do so safely, get on your roof to investigate. Ensure there are no loose or missing shingles, and that your chimney is in good working order. Walk the perimeter of your home, looking for any cracks or holes in the exterior. If you happen to find any issues, contact a professional sooner, rather than later.
Store your equipment
Once you have given your lawn one last mow and rake, it is time to pack away your spring and summer gear. Store all the equipment you use during the warmer months near the back of your garage or storage shed. Make sure to move your winter equipment to the front, for easy access.
If you have a snow blower, you should double check that it is ready to put in the work this winter, and will readily start when you will need it most. The last thing you want to be doing in the dead of winter, during a snowstorm, is trying to fix your equipment!
This is also the perfect time to put snow brushes and ice scrapers into your vehicle(s) for those frosty mornings.
With November here, we know we are getting closer to frigid Alberta temperatures. However, by doing proper maintenance on the inside, and outside, of your home you will be sure to stay warm and toasty all season long!