From Cozy Homes to Resilient Yards: Winter Preparation Tips

We’ve had a fantastic summer in Edmonton this year.  Days and days of sunny weather provided opportunities for afternoons spent exploring outdoors, taking in the many summer festival options, and strolls down Whyte Avenue while grabbing a scoop of a favorite ice cream.   

As the golden days of summer begin to give way to the crisp, cool air of September, we’re reminded that a time of transition and preparation is upon us.  With the leaves beginning to hint at their autumnal hues, the lazy days of summer are now only a vision in the rear-view mirror as the kids head back to school.

With the days growing shorter and temperatures starting to fall, it’s crucial to ensure both your home and yard are well-prepared for the winter months ahead. Many homeowners – new ones especially – may not be aware of the essential steps needed to get ready for the cold season.

Edmonton winters can be tough but taking a few proactive measures can help keep your home warm, safe and energy-efficient. Investing some time now to prepare your yard ensures it withstands the cold and looks fantastic once spring arrives.

Let’s explore some of the best ways to prepare your home and yard for the winter:

1. Inspect and Seal Windows & Doors: A significant amount of heat can escape through small gaps around windows and doors. Make sure to:
   1. Check for drafts: Use a candle or incense stick to find drafts. Hold it near windows and doors and watch for flickering.
   2. Apply weatherstripping: Replace worn-out weatherstripping around doors and windows.
   3. Use caulk: Seal any cracks around windowsills and door frames with caulk.
2. Service your Furnace and Heating System: Your heating system will be your best friend during the colder months. Ensure it’s in top condition by:
   1. Scheduling a professional inspection: Have a certified technician check your furnace and ducts.
   2. Replacing the filter: Change filters regularly to ensure optimal airflow and efficiently.
   3. Testing the thermostat: Make sure your thermostat is working correctly, consider upgrading to a programmable one. 
3. Insulate your Home: Proper insulation will keep your home warm and reduce energy bills:
   1. Check attic insulation: Ensure you have sufficient insulation in your attic. Adding a layer can make a big difference.
   2. Insulate pipes: Protect pipes in unheated areas to prevent freezing and bursting.
   3. Apply window film: Consider adding heat-shrink film to windows to increase insulation. 
4. Winterize Your Outdoor Space: Don’t forget about your exterior:
   1. Store outdoor furniture: Clean and store patio furniture to protect it from the elements
   2. Shut off exterior faucets: Drain and shut off exterior faucets to prevent frozen pipes.
   3. Inspect the roof: Check for damaged shingles and make repairs to prevent leaks.
   4. Clean gutters and downspouts: Clean out gutters to allow proper water flow. Ensure downspouts are directing water away from your home’s foundation.
5. Lawn Care: A healthy lawn will bounce back quickly in Spring:
   1. Rake leaves: Fallen leaves can smother your grass and lead to mold.  Remove them regularly.
   2. Final mowing: Keep grass trimmed, but not too short. A final cut at about 3” helps protect the roots.
   3. Fertilizer: Apply a fall fertilizer rich in potassium to strengthen grass for the winter months. 
6. Prune Trees and Shrubs: Proper pruning helps prevent damage and promotes healthy growth:
   1. Trim dead branches: Heavy snow can snap weak branches. Remove any dead or diseased wood.
   2. Shape and thin: Thin out crowded areas on shrubs and trees to reduce breakage under snow weight.
7. Prepare Flower Beds and Vegetable Gardens: Don’t neglect your garden beds:
   1. Remove annuals: Pull out dead annual plants to prevent pests and diseases.
   2. Cut back perennials: Trim perennials down to within a few inches of the ground after the first hard frost.
   3. Mulch: Apply a thin layer of mulch to insulate plants and keep roots warm.
8. Protect Delicate Plants: Some plants need extra care to survive winter:
   1. Wrap trees: Use burlap or tree wrap to protect young or sensitive trees from frost and wind.
   2. Move potted plants: Bring fragile plants indoors or into a heated garage.
   3. Plant bulbs: Early fall is perfect for planting spring bulbs like tulips and daffodils.
9. Manage Lawn and Garden Equipment: Make sure your tools are ready for hibernation:
   1. Clean your tools: Remove soil and grime to prevent rust.
   2. Store garden hoses: Drain hoses and store them inside to avoid cracking.
   3. Service the lawnmower: Empty the gas tank and check for necessary repairs before storing it away.
10.  Consider Wildlife: Support local wildlife during the long winter:
11. 1. Bird feeders: Clean feeders and keep them filled throughout the season.
    2. Shelters for small animals: Create small brush piles or install roosting boxes to provide shelter for birds and other critters.

By taking these steps, you’ll have the peace of mind that your home and yard are well-prepared for the winter months ahead. Investing a bit of effort now means your family will enjoy a warm, safe environment throughout the season, and come spring, your yard will be healthier and easier to maintain.

Enjoy the beauty of the changing seasons!

- Janice Fuller