The golden leaves of fall are fading, which means one thing, winter is on the way. For homeowners, it’s time to prep your property for a stress-free season of snow.
Outside
- Clear out gutters and remove debris to allow moisture to drain freely.
- Check decks for loose boards, cracks, rot and exposed nails.
- Power wash, stain or seal decking.
- Check roof for missing shingles or damage.
- Remove hoses from spigots and put away.
- Drain sprinkler systems and blow out irrigation hoses.
- Aerate and fertilize lawn.
- Empty plant pots and store over winter.
- Cut back dead perennials, and plant bulbs for spring.
- Store or cover yard furniture.
- Swap the lawn mower for the snow blower and carry out maintenance check. Purchase extra shear pins for snowblower as a backup in case of breaks.
- Bring out snow shovels and place in convenient location by doorways.
- Buy ice melt and store near entryway or stairs in particular.
- If you have a wood burning stove, organize wood and stack in an easy to access location.
Inside
- Check windows and doors for drafts and add weather-stripping or caulk to close up gaps.
- Clean the fireplace and examine the chimney for cracks and residue build up.
- Schedule to have the chimney swept. A professional chimney sweep can inspect the lining and masonry to ensure smoke and sparks have a clear path to escape.
- Increase insulation in the attic or crawlspace if needed.
- Hire a professional to complete a maintenance check on an HVAC system. Experts suggest an annual review of system of vents and ducts to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning, mold spores and other allergens.
- Inspect and clean furnace and replace filter.
- Alter forced air vents to winter settings.
- Replace batteries in smoke/CO alarms.
- Insulate any exposed pipes and set thermostats to ensure enough heat in all spaces to avoid frozen pipes. This is especially pertinent if you plan to leave the home empty at all for a period of time.