A handyman’s guide to winterizing your home

By Jon LaBelle

If you dread the changing of the season and tend to procrastinate when it comes to winterizing your home, you're definitely not alone. Unfortunately, the cold and snow aren't going to wait until you're ready, so it's time to tackle these important tasks now.

There are a number of issues that require your immediate attention before the ground freezes or becomes covered in snow.

1) Outdoor prep

While you likely have a routine of bringing in outdoor furniture and planters, now is also the time to do a thorough inspection of your property. Take a look at the slope of your yard and landscaping. Does it slope away from the house? Are there low spots? To avoid foundation problems in the spring, you'll want to correct problems now. Adjust the grade in flowerbeds and lawn; add extra dirt to low areas, as needed.

Decks should be checked for splintering, mold, decay or insect damage. Clean leaves, dirt and debris off and treat problem areas to prevent mold growth or further deterioration. Power wash affected areas, then apply a mixture of water, ammonia-free liquid dish detergent and bleach. Scrub and rinse to kill mold spores and lift stains. A wood deck sealant with a fungicide will prevent any re-growth. Replace damaged or rotting boards now to maintain the structural integrity of the deck.

Make sure your outdoor lighting is working and walkways are well illuminated. Handrails on exterior stairs should be well secured to reduce accidents. Stock up on ice melt or sand to keep steps, walkways and driveways clear.

It's time to get out the ladder to check your roof for missing, damaged or warped shingles. Use roofing cement and caulking to seal openings near the chimney, skylights, walls and vent pipes. Screens or covers should be in place over vent pipes to prevent birds and rodents from getting inside to nest. While you're up there, consider installing an electric ice melt system to prevent ice from forming and allowing water to safely drain off the roof into gutters and downspouts.

2) Indoor safety and comfort

It's time to make sure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors have fresh batteries and are in good working order. If they're more than five years old, you should replace them. You can never be too safe.

Inspect the flue on your fireplace or wood burner stove for a buildup of creosote or soot. Then check for cracks or voids. These are fire hazards and need to be corrected. Look at the damper too. Any warping, wear or rust may prevent it from closing tightly and cause cold winter drafts. A chimney balloon placed into the flue will seal it tightly.

Don't you just love winter when every door handle turns into its own electric shock centre? Cleaning your whole house humidifier and replacing the evaporator pad will help reduce the dry air that causes static electricity and make your home more comfortable.

3) Basement maintenance

Sump pump basin

No doubt you're familiar with the need to change your furnace filter and do regular maintenance on the unit itself. Another vital piece of basement equipment is your sump pump. While you may believe you only have to worry about basement flooding in the warmer months, Toronto professionals from Royal Work Corp. Waterproofing strongly recommend you check your sump pump operation.

Pouring several gallons of water into the sump pit should activate the unit and pump water away from the basement. Mid-winter thaws can occur at any time, and a faulty sump pump could result in a flooded basement. They also recommend adding a battery backup system for extra peace of mind during winter power outages.

Whether your basement is a finished space set up for entertaining or an unfinished area used for laundry and storage, you'll want to thoroughly inspect for all types of foundation cracks and prevent leaks.

In areas where the concrete is exposed, start by examining the foundation walls and floor. Look for excess moisture or cracks with water infiltration. In finished areas where the concrete is covered, look for bowed or warped walls, peeling paint or a musty odor.

Hydrostatic pressure, settling and the freeze-thaw cycle can all contribute to basement leaks. Maintaining a dry lower level is key to preventing mold in your basement. So if you find a leak, you'll want to repair it now. Plastic injection tubes, polyurethane and fast-curing epoxy can be used to repair interior wall fractures. This tight, yet flexible seal is resistant to further cracking.

Concrete coatings, sealers, paints and panels can also provide optimum waterproofing for interior applications. If you're unsure about how to repair your basement leaks, there are a number of homeowners' guides to foundation cracks that may be useful.

4) Organize your garage

One look at your garage after months of summer camping trips and projects may have you running for the hills. Seriously consider a thorough cleanup to switch equipment with the changing season.

Move the lawn mower, hedge trimmer, rakes, gardening tools and summer toys to the back of the garage. This will make room up front for the winter necessities like the snow blower, shovels, skis and sleds. Don't forget to put the snow brushes and ice scrapers back in the cars.

5) Be prepared

Unfortunately, winter storms can sometimes sneak up on you. Put together an emergency kit that's fully stocked with all the essentials like batteries, flashlights, matches, candles, warm clothes, blankets, a battery-powered radio, a first-aid kit, non-perishable food items and water.

If you have small children or pets, be sure to include items like diapers, baby formula, medicine and pet food. It's recommended that you store a minimum of three days' worth of supplies for every person in your house.

Winter weather can cause all sorts of problems in your home and property (and It will get cold eventually!). If you take a little extra time incorporating these tips into your winterization routine, you and your family should be safe and comfortable through the harsh conditions ahead.