Essential Fall Home Maintenance Tips for Saskatoon Homeowners Before Winter Hits

With the temperatures dropping and the promise of snow looming on the horizon, it’s not too late to ensure your home is ready for Saskatoon’s long winter season. Proper fall maintenance not only helps your home withstand the cold but also prevents costly repairs come spring. Here are essential maintenance tips every Saskatoon homeowner should tackle before the snow flies.

1. Check and Clean Gutters and Downspouts

During the fall, leaves, twigs, and debris can clog gutters and downspouts. When left uncleaned, these blockages can lead to ice damming, causing water to back up under your roof shingles. Clean out your gutters, ensuring water can flow freely. This simple step prevents ice buildup and potential water damage when snow starts to melt.

2. Inspect Your Roof and Make Necessary Repairs

Inspect your roof for loose, damaged, or missing shingles. A small leak can become a big problem once snow and ice accumulate. Repairing any roof damage before winter can save you from more extensive (and expensive) repairs in the spring. If you’re uncomfortable climbing onto your roof, hire a professional to inspect it for you.

3. Seal Drafts Around Doors and Windows

Drafts can make your home chilly and increase your heating costs. To keep your home cozy and energy-efficient, check for drafts around doors and windows. Weatherstripping, caulking, and door sweeps are effective and affordable ways to keep cold air out and warm air in. Proper sealing can improve your home’s energy efficiency by up to 20%, making a noticeable difference in your heating bill.

4. Winterize Your Outdoor Faucets and Sprinkler System

Frozen pipes can cause significant damage. To avoid this, disconnect garden hoses, shut off outdoor faucets, and drain your sprinkler system if you have one. An insulated faucet cover can also help prevent freezing. Taking these steps now can protect your plumbing and save you from a flooded basement in the dead of winter.

5. Service Your Furnace and Change the Filter

A well-maintained furnace is essential for a warm home throughout Saskatoon’s chilly winter. Schedule a professional furnace inspection and cleaning to ensure it’s in top condition. Also, remember to change your furnace filter regularly to maintain good indoor air quality and help your furnace run efficiently.

6. Trim Trees and Bushes Away from the House

Heavy snow and strong winter winds can cause tree branches to break and fall. Trim any overhanging branches near your roof, power lines, or windows to prevent potential damage. Also, trim any bushes near your home’s exterior to keep them from rubbing against your siding and to provide easier access for snow removal.

7. Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Detectors

With windows sealed and heating systems running, it’s crucial to test your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors. Replace batteries if necessary and ensure that all alarms are in working order. This small task can go a long way in keeping your family safe as you rely more on indoor heating.

8. Insulate Pipes in Unheated Areas

Pipes in unheated areas, such as basements, attics, or crawl spaces, are more susceptible to freezing. Use foam pipe insulation to protect them. This quick, cost-effective step can prevent pipes from bursting, saving you the headache of an emergency repair during the coldest days of the year.

9. Clean and Store Outdoor Furniture

If you have outdoor furniture, now’s the time to clean it, store cushions indoors, and, if possible, cover or store your furniture. This will prolong its lifespan and keep it looking fresh for when warmer weather returns.

10. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Last but not least, stock up on winter supplies before the first big snowfall. Make sure you have ice melt, a sturdy snow shovel, and any other tools necessary for snow removal. Prepare your vehicle with winter tires and an emergency kit, ensuring you’re ready for those inevitable snowy Saskatoon roads.

Winter in Saskatoon can be intense, but with these proactive maintenance steps, you can enjoy a safe, warm, and worry-free season. Regular upkeep now can prevent significant issues, help maintain your property value, and make winter living that much more comfortable.