As the leaves begin to change and the temperatures drop, it’s time for homeowners to think about preparing their homes for winter in Alberta. Taking a proactive approach to fall maintenance helps prevent costly repairs, improves energy efficiency, and keeps your home safe and comfortable through the colder months.

Here’s a comprehensive fall home maintenance checklist to guide you before the snow flies.

Exterior Home Maintenance

Your home’s exterior takes the brunt of harsh Canadian winters, so make sure it’s ready to withstand snow, ice, and wind.

• Inspect the roof – Look for missing, loose, or damaged shingles and repair them before heavy snowfall.
• Clean gutters & downspouts – Remove leaves and debris so melting snow drains properly, preventing ice dams.
• Seal gaps & cracks – Check exterior caulking and weatherstripping around windows, doors, and siding to stop drafts and pests.
• Protect exterior water systems – Drain and shut off outdoor faucets, disconnect hoses, and winterize sprinkler systems to avoid burst pipes.
• Check siding & paint – Touch up peeling paint or exposed wood to prevent water damage.
• Inspect the foundation – Seal any cracks to block water infiltration and keep rodents out.

Heating & Energy Prep

A warm, efficient home not only keeps you comfortable but also helps lower winter heating costs in Alberta.

• Service your furnace – Replace filters and schedule a professional inspection to ensure everything runs efficiently.
• Check fireplaces & chimneys – Clean out ashes and book a chimney sweep to reduce fire hazards.
• Test detectors – Make sure smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly.
• Insulate exposed pipes – Protect plumbing in unheated spaces like basements, garages, and crawl spaces.

Yard & Landscape Care

Fall is the perfect time to prepare your yard for dormancy and reduce winter damage.

• Rake leaves & clear debris – Prevent mold growth and keep your lawn healthy.
• Aerate & fertilize the lawn – Strengthen grass roots so your lawn comes back lush in spring.
• Trim trees & shrubs – Cut back branches that hang over your home or power lines to prevent storm damage.
• Protect plants & trees – Add mulch around perennials, wrap young trees, and bring potted plants indoors.
• Store outdoor furniture & tools – Clean and put away patio sets, garden hoses, and tools to extend their lifespan.

Indoor Readiness

Don’t forget the inside of your home when prepping for colder weather.

• Reverse ceiling fans – Switch blades to rotate clockwise, pushing warm air back down.
• Seal drafts indoors – Use draft stoppers, add insulation in attics, and check basement windows for leaks.
• Deep clean before winter – Dust baseboards, clean behind appliances, and vacuum vents so indoor air stays fresh.

Final Thoughts

By tackling these fall home maintenance tips for Alberta homeowners now, you can avoid costly repairs, improve energy efficiency, and ensure your home is safe and cozy all winter long. Think of it as an investment in your home’s value and your family’s comfort.

👉 Need help with larger projects like roof repairs, custom home builds, or renovations in Southern Alberta? At K2 Prairie Builders, we’re here to help you get your home winter-ready — and beyond.