Preparing your home for winter in Canada

Preparing your home for winter in Canada is essential to ensure comfort, energy efficiency, and safety during the cold months.

Here are nine things Team vanRahan suggests you do to get your home ready for the winter:

1. Insulate your home:

– Check and improve insulation in your attic, walls, and floors to reduce heat loss.

– Install weatherstripping around doors and windows to prevent drafts.

2. Service your heating system:

– Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance for your furnace or boiler.

– Replace air filters regularly to ensure proper airflow and efficiency.

3. Seal air leaks:

– Identify and seal any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior using caulk or foam insulation.

– Don’t forget to insulate and seal around electrical outlets and switches.

4. Clean and inspect your chimney:

– If you have a fireplace or wood-burning stove, have the chimney cleaned and inspected to prevent fire hazards.

5. Check your windows:

– Consider installing storm windows or applying plastic window film to improve insulation.

– Ensure windows are properly sealed and that locks are working.

6. Service your plumbing:

– Insulate exposed pipes to prevent freezing and potential bursts.

– Drain and store garden hoses, and shut off outdoor faucets if possible.

7. Roof and gutter maintenance:

– Inspect your roof for damaged or missing shingles and repair as needed.

– Clean gutters and downspouts to prevent ice dams and water damage.

8. Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors:

– Ensure your detectors are working correctly and replace the batteries if necessary.

9. Stock up on winter supplies:

– Buy or check your winter essentials like snow shovels, ice melt, and sand for walkways and driveways.

– Gather an emergency kit with blankets, non-perishable food, and flashlights in case of power outages.

It’s crucial to address these tasks well in advance of the coldest months to avoid any last-minute issues. Additionally, consider consulting with local professionals to address specific concerns. Team vanRahan would be happy to refer you to a trusted local professional for any work you may want to have done to prepare your house for winter.