Home Information Guide

Each week we share an important guide about caring for your home.

See this week's guide

CAN-AM Home Inspection Services
Pacific Rim Drift Charters
Alpha Home Inspections is a Canadian Company

Weekly Home Information Guide

Winterizing Your Home For Comfort

With the onset of longer nights and rainy weather the home undergoes unnoticed changes. Ongoing home maintenance will help reduce the chance of any surprises. Regardless of the age of the home and with a little care your home can be comfy and cozy throughout the winter months. We strongly suggest that all tasks be performed in a safe and practical manner.

On the exterior, all through the roof and wall penetrations should be well caulked with sealants that allow the movement of day/night temperatures without breaking the seal. Areas of concern include chimney/roof flashings, communication cables, roof/siding vents, window/door flashings, gable vents and water taps. There are many others. The use of exterior grade silicone clear or coloured is advised.

Visually inspect all roof surfaces to ensure that the water has no place to enter but down and away from the home. At the same time cut back any tree limbs that hang over any roof surface. Climbing ivy looks great in the right place but it can spell disaster if left unchecked. Clean and repair, if needed, all gutters and downspouts. Remove all debris, leaves, needles and moss buildup before the heavy winter rains create problems further down the line. Clean the flues, ensure that the rain cap/spark screen is in good repair, check for any cracks and test the damper function. Have professionally serviced if needed. Turn outside taps off and drain them where frost may be encountered.

Remove window screens, inspect for any damage/deterioration then clean with warm soapy water and store them on end for the winter. Inspect all window surfaces for any cracked panes or failed seals and have them professionally replaced if needed, take special note of all skylights. Repair, repaint or replace any sash, munions, sills, headers etc. before any deterioration starts.

Have bushes, trees, shrubs and plants kept well trimmed and well clear of the exterior siding of the home especially wood siding. Any wood stacked against the home should have at least a four-inch air space separation.

Finally, check the condition of driveway, sidewalks, drains, storm grates and sumps, clean/replace as needed. Remove the built up debris from the bottom i.e. sand, leaves, paper, and tree needles and cones.

We recommend qualified tradespersons where needed do all tasks, as they offer quality materials, proper installation requirements and a written guarantee.

Know that, for peace of mind, the care and attention to your home will serve you well year after year and in comfort.