Autumn in Ottawa is beautiful — and short. Use this complete fall maintenance checklist to protect your biggest investment before the first deep freeze arrives.
Ottawa winters are unforgiving. Between the deep freezes, heavy snow loads, and freeze-thaw cycles, your home takes a beating every year. The good news: almost every costly winter problem — burst pipes, ice dams, furnace failures — can be prevented with a weekend of fall preparation. Here's your complete checklist, organized so you can tackle it before the snow flies.
Clear leaves and debris so meltwater drains away from your foundation. Clogged gutters are the leading cause of ice dams and basement leaks.
Check attic insulation and ventilation. Proper airflow keeps the roof cold and prevents the ice dams that damage shingles and interior walls.
Inspect for loose or missing shingles, and seal any gaps around vents and flashing before snow loads put them under stress.
Repair cracks in asphalt and concrete before freezing temperatures widen them. Sealcoat driveways while the weather is still mild.
Frozen pipes are one of the most expensive — and most preventable — winter disasters. Ottawa homeowners should prioritize these tasks every fall.
Prune dead branches before they fall under snow and ice. Winterize garden beds, drain irrigation lines, and store patio furniture.
Service the snowblower, stock up on de-icing salt (pet-safe if needed), and stage shovels near all exits.
Replace smoke and CO detector batteries, check fire extinguishers, and test any backup generators.
Remove window AC units or cover them, and schedule a duct cleaning if you haven't in the past three years.
A well-maintained home sells faster and for more. If you're planning a move, I can help you prioritize the upgrades that actually add value in today's Ottawa market.
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