From the Blog

Ok, before you get upset that we are talking about the cold winter months, please hear us out! It’s now August and as the summer sun fades and the crisp autumn winds start to blow here in Barrie, homeowners should begin to shift their attention to winter preparations. The colder months in our region are known for heavy snowfall and chilly temperatures. Naturally, preparing your home now can not only provide comfort but can also save you on costly repairs in the future. Here are five essential projects to consider for preparing for winter in Barrie from the Red Carpet Handyman.

1. Gutter Cleaning and Maintenance: The leaves have had their show, but soon they’ll have fallen, mostly ending up in your gutters. Over the summer and into the fall, gutters often become the last resting place for leaves, twigs, and other natural debris. These obstructions can hinder proper drainage during rain and can lead to hazardous ice dams in winter. If you’re afraid of heights, or just don’t want to deal with gutter cleaning and maintenance, we do that…and we’ll ensure your gutters are cleaned, securely attached, and ready to channel water away from your foundation.

2. Seal Your Home Tight: We get it, nothing beats the cozy feeling of a warm home during a Simcoe Region winter. To maintain this comfort, we suggest you hire us to inspect and replace worn or missing weatherstripping around your windows and doors. This simple task keeps the cold air out, ensuring your home remains toasty. Additionally, caulking any gaps or cracks in your home’s exterior can prevent those nippy drafts and reduce your heating bills.

3. Roof Inspection and Repairs: Before winter’s weight descends in the form of snow and ice, have a good look at your roof. Loose or missing shingles can be the entry points for leaks or ice dams. A brief inspection now can prevent a world of trouble later. The Red Carpet Handyman team can ensure all shingles are in place, flashings are secure, and potential leak spots are well-sealed.

4. Get Your Heat On: If you’re one of the many in Barrie with a fireplace or wood stove, it’s time to ensure it’s in top shape. A clean and inspected chimney not only offers efficient heating but also prevents potential chimney fires. Additionally, a quick check on your furnace – replacing filters and ensuring no obstructions – guarantees you’re all set for when the temperatures drop.

5. Winterize Outdoor Faucets: The last thing you’d want is a burst pipe in the thick of winter, right? We can protect your pipes by installing insulated covers over outdoor faucets. We’ll drain water from outdoor systems, including hoses and irrigation pipes, and ensure they are shut off and winterized.

Your friendly Red Carpet Handyman team knows that preparing for winter in Barrie isn’t just about bundling up. Your home needs some attention too to get red carpet ready. Tackling these projects now ensures a warm, safe, and efficient home during the cold months. And remember, while you can handle many of these tasks yourself, we encourage you to consider hiring the Red Carpet Handyman.