Winterizing your home 101
As a great show (still trying to scrub season 7 & 8 from my memory) once said “Winter is Coming”.
The winter season in Toronto is just around the corner so while you are pulling the parka out of the basement or getting your snow tires installed, make you remember your home too. Winterizing your home not only ensures a warm and cozy living space but also helps in maintaining energy efficiency and costs. Plus your home is quite possibly your greatest financial investment so we want to make sure to protect it.
Here are some important things to do for your home in the winter to keep it comfortable, safe, and in top condition.
- Inspect and Maintain Heating Systems: Before the winter chill sets in, have your heating systems, such as furnaces and fireplaces, inspected by a professional. Make sure to check the tags/notes on the actual appliance for the last maintenance date. Clean or replace filters, check for any leaks, and make sure everything is in good working order. Regular maintenance ensures your home stays warm without unexpected breakdowns.
- Seal Gaps and Insulate: Especially with older homes. Prevent heat loss by sealing gaps around windows and doors. Use weather stripping and caulk to seal any drafts. This is an easy & cheap job you can do yourself on a weekend. Additionally, consider adding insulation in the attic and walls if needed (hire a professional, it can get messy). Proper insulation can significantly reduce heating costs and keep your home comfortably warm.
- Clean Gutters and Downspouts: Another fun weekend job! ;) Those beautiful colour Fall leaves unfortunately like to accumulate in gutters, leading to clogs and with Toronto’s love of freezing rain, potential ice dams. Clean out gutters to ensure proper drainage and prevent water damage to your roof and foundation. Remember, downspouts should direct water away from the foundation to avoid freezing and thawing issues.
- Protect Pipes from Freezing:Frozen pipes can lead to costly damage. Insulate exposed pipes in unheated areas, such as the attic, basement, or crawl spaces. Allow a small stream of water to flow through faucets during extremely cold nights to prevent pipes from freezing. Consider insulating outdoor faucets and disconnecting hoses.
- Check Your Roof: This really depends on your roofs age and the last time you (or a professional) actually inspected it. If it’s an old roof (10+ years) you want to look for loose or damaged shingles. Snow and ice can make worse existing issues, leading to leaks which is the last thing anyone wants on a cold winter night. Being vigilant and general minor upkeep can extend a roofs age for years.
- Winterize Outdoor Spaces:This is always bitter sweet for me. Yes, I love the winter but I also love my patio! Make sure to store or if leaving outside, cover (and tie down. It can get windy in winter!) your outdoor furniture to protect it from winter elements. Are there any trees near your drive way or home? Trim tree branches that could potentially fall under the weight of snow or ice.
Taking the time to winterize your home is an investment in both comfort and safety. These simple yet crucial steps will not only keep you warm during the colder months but also contribute to the longevity and efficiency of your home. By preparing in advance, you can enjoy a cozy and worry-free winter season!
