Winter is knocking on our front doors and there is very little time to get your property ready for the long, frigid months of a Canadian winter.

Getting your home ready for the winter season is about making sure your property is protected as well as keeping your energy bills comparatively low.

To help you prepare for winter, maintain your property, and stay cozy all season, we have put together a checklist of what you need to do to prepare your home for winter.

‍

1. Clean out your gutters to prevent water from collecting.

When water freezes, it expands in volume, which can lead to damage to your property. You want to inspect all areas where water could possibly collect. When rooftop drainage is not maintained, it can clog and lead to water building up in the drainage system. It’s important to remove any debris that could cause a blockage so that water doesn’t pool and cause damage.

‍

2. Empty outdoor pipes.

Outdoor pipes such as garden and air conditioning units need to have the water drained from them. If still full of water, when the temperature drops, these pipes are at high risk of cracking and can cause pricey damage.

‍

3. Clean your furnace.

To improve efficiency, reduce fire hazards, and prevent carbon monoxide leaks, conducting yearly inspections is essential and it is highly recommended to engage a professional for this job. You should also be replacing the filter about every three months, and right before winter is a great opportunity to do so.

‍

4. Seal up areas that cause a draft.

Heat leakage can be costly and annoying. Weather stripping is a low-cost investment that can go a long way in preventing costly drafts. If you’ve already had it installed, it’s best to check it for wear to see if any strips need replacing.

‍

‍5. Check your insulation – how’s it looking.

If your home is older, you may want to inspect the insulation in your attic and basement to see if it needs replacing. Insulation does degrade over time and needs to be replaced periodically. Furthermore, the technology of insulation has significantly improved recently and you’re likely to find a more efficient product that will save you money throughout the years.

‍

6. Inspect your garage doors.

The motors on garage doors do require periodic maintenance. If you’re hearing any unusual sounds, it’s best to bring in a professional before winter sets in. You should also check rubber seals and hinges on your door to make sure none are in need of replacing. The last thing you want is a garage door that won’t open in January as you’re trying to get to work.

‍

7. Layout your rooms to improve heat retention.

It may seem strange, but the layout and décor of your space can impact heat efficiency. If you’re taking all of the above precautions, you don’t want to make the easy mistake of laying out rooms in a way that blocks air vents. Keep your vents clear and warm air flowing through your home. Adding drapes to windows is an easy way to add an extra layer of insulation and improve your home’s efficiency.

‍

If you are planning to sell your property during the winter months, making sure it is thoughtfully prepared for winter is important. You want your home to feel warm, clean, well-cared for and inviting. Pack up any unnecessary personal items, keep everything sparkling clean, and make sure you’re bringing as much light into the space as possible.

‍

The Suzy Goldstein Team has relationships with service providers who can help you winterize your property or get it ready for sale. If you’re looking to take advantage of the current seller’s market by listing your property during the winter months, we can help guide you through the process of setting up your home for a successful sale.