Fall is the ideal time to prepare your home for winter. Completing essential fall home maintenance before freezing temperatures arrive can help protect your property from moisture, ice and snow while reducing the risk of costly repairs.
Seal and Repair Your Driveway
Small cracks in asphalt can become larger problems when water enters them and freezes. As water expands during freezing, it can put additional pressure on the surrounding asphalt and contribute to further damage.
Many driveway sealers require dry weather and temperatures around 10°C or warmer to cure properly. Repair cracks and clean the surface before applying sealer to help achieve the best results.
Inspect Your Roof and Clean the Gutters
After most leaves have fallen, clean your gutters and make sure downspouts direct water away from your home's foundation. If you are uncomfortable climbing onto your roof, consider hiring a qualified roofing professional to perform the inspection.
Winterize Outdoor Plumbing
Winterizing outdoor plumbing is one of the most important steps when preparing your home for winter.
Before the first hard freeze:
• Shut off and drain exterior hose bibs where applicable
• Disconnect and store garden hoses
• Drain irrigation systems or have them professionally winterized
• Follow manufacturer instructions for winterizing pools, hot tubs, fountains and outdoor kitchens
Don't overlook connected garden hoses. Leaving a hose attached to an exterior faucet can trap water in the plumbing system, potentially allowing it to freeze and damage pipes inside the home.
Prepare Your Yard and Landscaping for Winter
Fall landscaping maintenance can also help prepare your property for the colder months and encourage healthy growth in the spring.
Pay particular attention to branches hanging over your roof, driveway or utility lines. Snow and ice can add significant weight to branches and increase the risk of breakage during winter storms.
Store Outdoor Furniture and Seasonal Equipment
Properly storing outdoor furniture and seasonal equipment can help protect these items from winter weather and extend their useful life. Taking care of equipment in the fall can help prevent problems when you need it again next season.