Preparing for Winter

Well, here we are again. That sullen period where the summer is ending and fall is about to begin, and we all know what comes after that. But before you get the shovel out, this is the perfect time to start thinking about what you can do to prepare your house for the eventual cold weather. Here are a few tips to help you through the uncertainty of another Canadian winter:

Start outside

Just as you grab for your winter jacket before leaving the house, your home needs a proper coat as well. A strong defence to any chilly household is a durable exterior cover. Make sure your brick, siding, or stone are in great shape with no cracks or holes.

If you’re looking for something new and durable for your exterior then check out Fusion Stone’s Dry-Stack, a no-mortar installation with an easy, no-mess application that makes Fusion Stone an excellent DIY solution. In fact, installation is so simple, you’ll only need to use a few tools that you probably already have around your home. This high-quality, manufactured stone veneer comes in a kit and easily fastens together.

Address those drafty windows

Most homes have windows on all sides of them, which is a major factor in your house losing heat and letting cold air in. Try removing old caulking, dirt and grime from around the outside of your windows, and replacing it with new caulking.

Add weather stripping around the sash (the moveable parts of a window that open and close) to seal your windows. There are many different types of weather stripping including adhesive-backed foam and tubular rubber gaskets.

You can also try full window insulating kits. These kits work extremely well, but remember that you won’t be able to open your windows until spring. The kits can cost you anywhere from $15 to $50 a box, depending on the style and window size. Some other solutions can be found here: bobvilla.com.

Stay warm with proper heating maintenance

Keeping your furnace running smoothly is key to a home that’s warm and cozy. The inspection and repair of your furnace should be left to professionals. Find one in your area or ask your friends if they can recommend someone.

A few things that you can do yourself include changing out the air filter and making sure there is no clutter around the furnace that could block air flow. If you think you might be in need of a new furnace, some helpful tips can be found here nrcan.gc.ca.

Don’t forget about the gutters

You should clear your gutters at least twice a year. Blowing them out with a leaf blower or hose is one option, but you can’t beat the old-fashioned custom of climbing a ladder and getting your hands dirty. Make sure you have someone stabilizing the ladder for you if you choose this method. Clean eaves troughs prevent water from pooling up, which can then freeze, causing dangerous ice buildup or damage to your gutters, which can cause a leak come spring.

With these tips, you’ll be able to get nice and cold on the ski or toboggan hills, then come inside to a cup of hot chocolate and a nice, warm home.