Kitchener Home Repair and Maintenance: 5 Winterization Tips for Homeowners

The winter is quickly approaching, and, as a homeowner, you know your house requires extra care during the winter months, but you are not sure what maintenance tasks are necessary before the cold weather hits. You should contact home repair services in Kitchener to discuss your home needs specifically, and in the meantime, you can focus on general winterization tips.

1. Seal Leaky Doors and Windows

How old are your doors and windows, and when was the last time you replaced the weatherstripping? The longevity of weatherstripping usually has to do with the materials. For example, bronze weatherstripping will last decades, but self-stick weatherstripping may only last about two or three years.

If you can’t remember the last time you replaced the stripping, there is a simple test you can perform to see if it needs replacing. Open and close your windows and doors. When closed, lock them and look closely around the edges. Do you notice a gap? If you see a gap, the seals likely need replacing.

Besides weatherstripping, you will also want to check the threshold gasket of the door and look for any gaps between the door and exterior trim. A professional handyperson can help you inspect your property and prepare it for winter.

2. Check Electrical Systems

Your home’s electrical system is essential during the longer nights and colder days. The last thing you want is for your system to fail during the most frigid and darkest periods of the year.

The electrical system of your house requires regular tune-ups. It would be best to evaluate the system at least once a year before the winter sets in.

An electrician will inspect the main panel, assess the breakers, and check connections for discolouration or bad insulation. They will also use a multimeter to check the power flow through the system.

Always hire a licensed electrician to inspect your system. They are the only ones qualified for the job.

3. Test the Sump Pump

Hire a contractor to inspect your home’s sump pump. The sump pump is the last line of defense against floods, condensation, and backflow. The winter’s snow, ice, and rainfall can put a lot of strain on a house’s drainage system, risking damage to the basement and foundation.

A licensed plumber can check the exit pipe for potential damage, including clogs and dirt. They will also ensure that water from the sump pump exits away from the property’s foundation. The professional can inform you of anything else you might need to protect your home, like a water detector.

4. Weatherproof Exterior Pipes

Frozen pipes are a significant risk to homeowners and their properties. When external pipes freeze, they can crack, and when the pipes thaw, they unleash potentially hundreds of gallons of water on a home.

All external pipes require weatherproofing or insulation. If you have exposed pipes around your property, buy insulation tape or similar products to keep the lines warm. Also, shut off any unnecessary water lines for the season.

5. Hire a Professional Handyman

Winterizing your home is challenging but necessary. Ensuring plumbing, electrical, and other systems are ready for the season significantly reduces risks of damage and expense.

You have options outside of do-it-yourself techniques. Most experts recommend homeowners hire contractors to perform work they are uncomfortable with, especially when preparing a home for the winter. Hiring a pro is often more affordable than people realize.

Are you ready to winterize your home in Kitchener? If so, contact one of the many qualified professionals working with Handyman Connection and schedule a property assessment. The service will send a professional to your property to review your needs and develop a plan of action.