Home Preparations for the Winter - Ask The Expert with Greg Marcyniuk (Episode 185)

Greg discusses some tips on what not to do during a lightning storm in this episode of Ask The Expert. 800 CHAB radio presents Ask the Expert with Greg Marcyniuk of Heritage Insurance located in Moose Jaw.

Here's a full transcript of the episode.

Rob Carnie: Greg Marcyniuk from Heritage Insurance on Ask the Expert. And, Greg, I know you don't want to rush us into it, but now's the time to get our homes, get our properties ready for winter. Winter can arrive real quick, in a blink of an eye, sometimes in October. So the time is now. 

Greg Marcyniuk: That's right, Rob. You know, the trees are starting to turn already, and we're seeing cooler temperatures. So just a little easier to do it when it's a little warmer out right now. So first and foremost, you should take a real quick check of your roof. And if you're able to, to go up and just take a look, and see if there's any missing, damaged or loose shingles. And if you can't get up there, just grab a pair of binoculars, and take a close look at it. 

Also, now's a good time to check the chimney and your fireplace. And if you do have a wood fireplace and use it often, it's really a great idea to get that cleaned and inspected by a professional. As well, if you do have that wood fireplace, you should stock up on firewood right now, and gather it and make sure it's dry and ready for the winter season. And it's best to cover that firewood and store it away from the house. 

Just so, for safety reasons. 

You want to take a look at your siding, and check the exterior for any cracks or holes, clean your gutters, and again, if you're not able to get up there, there's lots of services out there that you can hire that will clean them for you. Check your water drainage around your house, rainwater downspouts, you know, they need to be clear of obstructions and direct water away from the foundations, walkways and driveways. 

As well, take a look at your windows and doors, and if they require any caulking and sealing, a great time to do that now. As well, turn off your faucets, store hoses, and drain your garden hoses and disconnect from the outside spigots. 

So good idea to get that done. As well, you want to service your sprinklers right now, and make sure that they are working well and that they are drained well. And if you have anyone around, mark sprinkler heads that are near snow removal areas. It's good idea to inspect your trees as well. Just check for any damaged limbs that may break that are too close to power lines or your roof. 

And as well, leaf removal, always a great time to get out there once the leaves do fall off, to get that. And it's a good idea to fertilize your lawn and applying fall lawn fertilizer will prevent winter damage and spring weeds. Best to ask a professional at a garden center on that. 

And put away your seasonal furniture, and clean it up, wash and dry it, and store it in a dry place over the [inaudible]. And also this time of the year, it's a great time to organize your shed or your garage. And if you do have a shed, make sure you put all of your summer stuff to the back, and bring your winter stuff out front, especially a shovel because you just never know in Saskatchewan when the snow may fly. 

I never put my shovel away. It's always handy. 

Internal optimist. 

These are some reminders for most people and some great tips for others, especially new homeowners. And, Greg, they're available, these tips, these reminders, online? 

Greg: Yes, you can go to nohassleinsurance.ca, or come on down to the corner of Fairford and First Street West, and we're more than happy to take care of those needs for you. 

Rob: Greg Marcyniuk, Heritage Insurance on Ask the Expert. Thanks, Greg. 

Greg: You're welcome. 

(Video transcription via SpeechPad)