It’s officially autumn, which means we’re just a few short weeks (or days, if this short summer was any indication to how long our fall will be) away from facing the harsh, cold reality of winter. Do you know what that means? You’ve kicked back and relaxed for a little while but now it’s time to get serious about that lengthy repair “to do” list you’ve been putting off.
Cold winter weather can make a mountain out of a mole hill, so take care of these little repairs or they will ultimately cost you… a lot.
Cracked Or Broken Driveway
If you’ve been meaning to repair that eyesore of a driveway, now’s the time to do it. Driveways and parking lots are paved with porous material. If they aren’t sealed, water and moisture from heavy snow and rain can seep through the material and pool underneath, which can cause damage to the base and lead to cracking and breaking, especially when that moisture freezes and thaws repeatedly.
Stay on top of repairs and have your drive sealed to prevent any further damage. Investing in a good sealant will also help to protect your driveway colour from fading, and make oil or other fluid clean ups a breeze.
A Delicate Roof Situation
While your home may not have taken a big hit over the summer season (although we had our fair share of downpours), your roof may still need some preventative care to get you through the winter. Whether it simply needs new shingles or something more intensive, you should organize getting it done sooner rather than later, or risk being stuck in the cold while you’re waiting for expensive emergency repairs.
Fireplace Safety
It’s fun to snuggle up in front of a fire when it’s cold and blowing outside, but safety first. You can reduce the possibility of fire by checking and cleaning your vents, fireplace and chimney before the winter weather comes and you’ll be using it more often.
Safety Tip: Though it may be tempting, in the event of a power outage, don’t bring propane BBQs in the house to keep warm – even with proper ventilation, the build up of carbon monoxide can be dangerous.
Patio & Deck Support
When it’s covered in a foot of snow it’s hard to imagine heading out there but we all know how much Canadians love a good patio – you can’t tell us the thought of barbequing a steak or burgers hasn’t at least crossed your mind at least once in the middle of a snow storm. Check your porch and deck supports, as well as how sturdy stairs and railings are, so they don’t give out when you need them to keep you from slipping and falling on ice and snow. This is also a great time to apply a fresh coat of sealant to protect against harsh winter weather.
