How to Winterize Your Home Before Cold Weather Arrives

Learning how to winterize your home before colder weather arrives can help keep your property comfortable, reduce energy use and prevent avoidable maintenance problems. In Metro Vancouver, winter may be relatively mild compared with other parts of Canada, but rain, wind, freezing temperatures and occasional snow can still take a toll on a home.

Fortunately, a little preparation can go a long way.

1. Winterize Your Home by Checking the Heating System

Before temperatures drop, make sure your heating system is ready for the season.

Check or replace furnace filters as needed and consider regular professional servicing based on your system’s requirements. In addition, make sure vents and registers aren’t blocked by furniture or other household items.

A properly maintained heating system can help keep your home comfortable throughout the winter.

2. Stop Drafts Around Windows and Doors

Check windows and exterior doors for noticeable drafts.

Weatherstripping, caulking and other appropriate air-sealing measures can help reduce cold air entering your home and warm air escaping.

As a result, your home may feel more comfortable without making your heating system work as hard.

3. Check Your Insulation

Insulation helps keep heat inside your home during colder months.

Therefore, consider checking areas such as the attic, basement and crawl space, particularly in an older home. If you’re planning a larger insulation upgrade, professional advice can help you determine where improvements may have the greatest impact.

4. Clean Gutters and Inspect the Exterior

Fall leaves and debris can clog gutters and downspouts before winter arrives.

Clean them and make sure water can drain away from your home. At the same time, look for obvious signs of damage around the roof, exterior walls and drainage areas.

However, leave potentially dangerous roof or ladder work to a qualified professional.

5. Protect Plumbing From Cold Weather

Pipes in colder areas such as garages, crawl spaces or exterior walls may need extra attention when temperatures fall.

Make sure vulnerable plumbing is appropriately protected and know where your home’s main water shut-off is located.

If you’re concerned about pipes freezing or other plumbing issues, contact a qualified plumber rather than attempting complicated repairs yourself.

6. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms

Winter is a good time to test your home’s smoke and carbon monoxide alarms and replace batteries or units when required.

In addition, make sure everyone in the household knows where alarms are located and what to do if one sounds.

7. Prepare Your Home’s Exterior

Put away or secure outdoor furniture and other items that could move during strong winter winds.

Meanwhile, keep walkways, stairs and entrances clear of leaves, snow and other potential slipping hazards. It’s also helpful to have basic winter supplies ready before they’re actually needed.

8. Use Your Thermostat Wisely

Your thermostat can play an important role in winter energy use.

Programmable and connected thermostats can automatically adjust temperatures based on when you’re home, away or sleeping. Instead of heating an empty home unnecessarily, you can create a schedule that works with your household’s routine.

A Little Work Now Can Help Winterize Your Home

You don’t need a major renovation to winterize your home effectively. Start with basic maintenance, address drafts and potential trouble spots, and deal with small problems before winter weather makes them bigger.

Most importantly, regular seasonal maintenance helps protect your home throughout the year — not just during winter.

If you’re thinking about buying or selling a home in New Westminster, Burnaby, Coquitlam or elsewhere in Metro Vancouver, the Adam Lloyd Home Selling Team is always happy to help.

Contact The Adam Lloyd Home Selling Team, we can help you understand what’s currently available, where the best value is and how to compete in this price range. Reach out anytime for a no-pressure conversation.

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