A complete guide to winterizing your home and backyard

It’s time to prepare your home and grounds for the harsh winter months? Follow our professionals’ advice to optimize not only your comfort, but also the durability of your backyard. 

Groupe Bellemare has many years of experience in all types of work, construction and renovations during the winter months.

• For a guide to maintaining your driveway before, during and after winter, click here!
• You have a garden? Here’s how to protect it before winter.

Here are the steps to follow, whether you are an experienced homeowner or just starting out.

Before Winter

1. Home inspection

Start by examining the exterior and interior of your home for any problems that could worsen over the winter. Look for cracks in the foundation, damaged roof shingles and holes in doors and windows. Solving these problems quickly will prevent heat loss and water infiltration.

2. Room and window insulation

Good insulation is essential for maintaining a comfortable temperature and saving on energy costs. Add insulation to your attic, walls and basement. Also use weather stripping to seal gaps around doors and windows.

3. Heating system maintenance

Schedule a professional inspection and maintenance of your heating system. Replace air filters, clean ducts and make sure your furnace or heat pump is in top condition. A well-maintained system is both profitable and safe. 

If you have a fireplace, have your chimney inspected and swept.

4. Preparing plumbing for winter

Frozen pipes are an expensive headache. Insulate pipes exposed to the cold and disconnect garden hoses. During a particularly cold winter, consider using heating tape or foam pipe insulation. 

5. Backyard maintenance before winter

Your lawn also needs attention before winter arrives. Here are a few steps to consider:

• Mow the grass: Mow your lawn one last time before the snow arrives.
• Clear the ground: Aerating your lawn allows nutrients and air to reach the roots. This will keep your lawn healthier.
• Fertilize: Apply a winter fertilizer to feed the grass during the dormant season.
• A good stroke of the rake: Remove dead leaves to prevent mould growth

During winter

6. Snow and ice removal

Keeping walkways and driveways clear of snow and ice is essential to your safety. Shovel snow quickly and use the right de-icing and anti-skid products. 

• Not sure which product to buy to maintain your driveway? Consult this guide.

7. Keep an eye on your home’s temperature

Keep the thermostat at a constant temperature, even when you’re not at home. Consider using a smart thermostat to manage your heating efficiently.

8. Cover outdoor plants

If you have delicate plants or shrubs, consider covering them with burlap or a protective fabric to protect them from wind and frost. 

9. Protect pipes from freezing

If temperatures drop considerably, keep an eye on the pipes to protect them from freezing. If you notice a reduced water flow or no water at all, leave the taps running and use a hair dryer or hot air gun to thaw the pipes. Call a professional if needed.

After Winter

10. Cleaning gutters

Once the snow and ice have melted, clean your gutters and downspouts. Remove debris to prevent water damage to roofs and foundations. 

11. Roof inspection

Winter can be rough on your roof. Inspect it for signs of damage, such as missing or damaged shingles. Make any necessary repairs quickly.

12. Tree and shrub pruning

Early spring is an ideal time to prune trees and shrubs. Remove dead or damaged branches to promote healthy growth and improve the appearance of your landscape.

13. Lawn care

As spring approaches, it’s time to prepare your lawn for the growing season. Remove all winter debris and begin regular maintenance (watering and fertilizing).

Pro tips

Here is a summary of some essential tips to ensure that your home and backyard have the best possible winter.

Invest in quality insulation: Good insulation means lower energy bills and greater comfort.

Replace filters regularly: Change your HVAC filters every 1 to 3 months for optimum efficiency.

Stock up on winter products: Buy winter essentials such as salt, sand and snow shovels (plastic so as not to damage your driveway) before the season starts.

Enjoy winter!

Now that your home and yard are ready to face the cold and the snow, all you have to do is enjoy winter with peace of mind!

If you have any questions, cold weather concreting needs or would like to know more about our de-icing and anti-slip retailers, please contact us!