As the Calgary winter approaches, preparing your home isn’t just about staying warm—it’s about protecting your property from costly damage. Snow, ice, and freezing temperatures can take a toll on even the most well-maintained homes. At AM PM Properties, we recommend proactive winter maintenance to keep your property safe, energy-efficient, and ready for the season ahead.
Here’s a step-by-step guide to get your home winter-ready:
1. Inspect and Service Your Heating System
- Have your furnace or boiler professionally serviced before the cold sets in.
- Replace or clean filters monthly during peak use.
- Test your thermostat to ensure it’s working efficiently.
- If you have a fireplace or wood stove, schedule a chimney cleaning to prevent fire hazards.
2. Seal Windows and Doors
- Check for drafts around windows and doors; use weatherstripping or caulking to seal gaps.
- Install storm doors or windows if you have them.
- Consider heavy, insulated curtains to help retain heat.
3. Protect Your Plumbing
- Insulate exposed pipes in basements, attics, and crawl spaces.
- Disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior faucets.
- Keep cabinet doors open on especially cold nights to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
- Know where your main water shutoff valve is—just in case.
4. Check Your Roof and Gutters
- Clean gutters and downspouts so melting snow can drain properly.
- Repair loose shingles or flashing to prevent leaks.
- Ensure attic insulation is adequate to reduce the risk of ice dams forming on your roof.
5. Inspect Your Exterior
- Fill cracks in your driveway, steps, or walkways before ice expands them.
- Trim tree branches that could break under snow and damage your home.
- Check siding for gaps or damage and repair before snow and wind make it worse.
6. Improve Energy Efficiency
- Add insulation in attics and crawl spaces if needed.
- Seal around electrical outlets on exterior walls.
- Reverse ceiling fans to push warm air down into living spaces.
- Schedule an energy audit if you suspect heat loss.
7. Safety Preparations
- Test smoke and carbon monoxide detectors; replace batteries.
- Restock winter essentials like salt, sand, and shovels.
- Have emergency supplies ready: blankets, flashlights, batteries, and bottled water.
8. Don’t Forget the Yard
- Store patio furniture, garden tools, and hoses.
- Cover or store your BBQ grill.
- Protect shrubs and young trees with burlap wraps or snow fencing.
Taking time to prepare your home for winter helps prevent expensive repairs, improves comfort, and ensures safety. Whether you’re a homeowner or a landlord, proactive maintenance pays off all season long.
At AM PM Properties, we assist our clients with seasonal inspections, vendor coordination, and 24/7 maintenance support—so your property stays protected no matter how cold it gets outside.
Need expert help with your rental property? Contact AM PM Properties — Calgary’s trusted property management team. Phone: (587)832-5000 | Email: repairs@ampmproperties.ca | www.ampmproperties.ca
