When the days start getting shorter and nights longer, it’s time to start prepping your home for winter. Here are a few items that can help you keep your home safe, warm, and ensure no damage occurs over our coldest months. Are there any other things you like to do to get your home ready?

1. Examine the roof 

Get out your ladder and inspect up there, or rather, hire a professional to check for any shingles that have blown off or are curling.  If you are a few years shy from repair, have you started to budget for a new one?

2. Clean out the gutters

Cleaning out the eaves is one of the simplest and most inexpensive ways to stop moisture from getting into your home; it helps keep it away from the foundation by guiding it away. Ensure there are no leaks and water flows where it is supposed to.  Or, get gutter guards installed. 

3. Shut off drain and outdoor faucets 

Turn off all exterior faucets and drain water from outdoor pipes, valves, and sprinkler heads to prevent pipes from bursting. You may wish to consider frost-proof faucets. 

4. Seal windows and doors

Sealing the gaps in your windows and doors is essential to reducing energy costs this winter. Any gap more than a nickel should have caulking applied. Weather stripping may also be required.  

5. Replace furnace filter

Replace the filter monthly to ensure efficiency and keep dust particles from penetrating the clean, heated air.  Test for carbon monoxide and it is recommended to invest in a detector to monitor your home.  Carbon monoxide is undetected by smell, and can be deadly.  A monitor is worth the cost. 

6. Check your insulation

If you want to stay cozy in winter, proper insulation is an essential step.  The higher the R-value, the greater the rating the performance of your insulation.  Check with MB Hydro for any insulation rebates. 

7. Check your smoke alarm battery

Last, enjoy the winter! May it be filled with warm, safe nights in your home.