If you've lived on the coast for more than one winter, you know what's coming: weeks of steady rain, wind off the ocean, and the particular damp that works its way into every corner. The good news is that a focused afternoon or two in September can make a real difference to how your home holds up.
Start With Your Gutters and Downspouts
Leaves haven't fully fallen yet, but summer debris — seeds, dust, and shingle grit — has been collecting all season. Clear gutters now, then plan to clear them again in late October once the big leaf drop is done. Make sure downspouts direct water well away from your foundation. Even a metre of extension can reduce moisture intrusion significantly.
Check Your Roof and Attic
You don't need to climb up there yourself — binoculars work fine for spotting lifted or missing shingles from the ground. Inside, a quick attic check for daylight, staining, or soft spots around vents can catch small problems before they become big ones. If anything looks questionable, September is an ideal time to get a roofer out before their schedule fills up with emergency calls.
Inspect Caulking and Weather Stripping
Windows and exterior doors are common entry points for drafts and water. Run your finger along caulk lines around frames — if it's cracked, peeling, or missing, a tube of exterior caulk is a very inexpensive fix. Replace worn weather stripping on doors while you're at it. Your heating bill will thank you.
Service Your Heating System
- Replace furnace filters — once a month through winter if you have pets.
- Book a service call for your gas fireplace or heat pump if it hasn't been serviced in over a year.
- Bleed radiators if you have a hot-water heating system — trapped air makes them less efficient.
Tidy Up Outdoor Drains and Paths
Clear any debris from yard drains and ensure patio areas drain away from the house. Mossy paths are charming until someone slips — a stiff brush and a gentle pressure wash now will help, and you can re-apply moss inhibitor before the wet sets in.
None of this needs to happen all in one weekend. Spread it across a few Saturdays and enjoy the cooler air while you work. A home that's been cared for going into winter is simply a more comfortable place to be.