Helpful Tips in Preparing Your Home for Winter

The following story was shared with me…

We ‘share’ a patio with a very enterprising little squirrel.  He barely tolerates our existence in his space.  I see him munching away on his neat little stores of pinecones or peanuts and then laying flat out on his full belly he takes a nap on the fence.  He basks in the warm sunlight without a care in the world.  I do feel like I am intruding on his territory and find myself hesitating to disturb him! Until, that is, I see that he has once again dug a hole in my planters to bury his pinecones and other misc treasures.  Upon closer examination, I find such invasions in all of my planters AND stuffed up the fireplace vent!

Now is the time to take a lesson from “nature”.  As “she” prepares for winter, so should we.  

Here are a few ideas for getting your home ready this Fall:

-furnace cleaned and inspected

-duct maintenance

-eavestroughs cleared and put up the lights

-check that your shovels are in good condition

-outdoor extension cords

-switch out your lighter comforters/sheets and curtains for heavier fabrics or extra layers

-rugs for entrances and boot trays

-clear out space in your closets for winter gear and heavier coats

-having a bin or basket handy for mitts, gloves, hats and scarves

-checking for gaps in doors and windows 

-check out the MB Hydro rebate incentives for added insulation to see if you qualify

-wood ready to go for your wood burning fireplaces (and having your flu and chimney cleaned and inspected)

These are just a few reminders for you whether you are planning to hibernate in your current home or preparing your home for the Fall/Winter market. 

Also, a nice wreath on the door wouldn’t hurt 😉

For more ideas on Fall and Winter preparations, check out this article