There are some essential tasks you should complete before winter hits. Here’s a checklist to help you get it all done. Seal Walk the perimeter of your house and seal any foundation cracks or re-apply caulking around windows and doors where it has weathered away. This is a crucial step to protecting your home. Rake Clean leaves from pathways and lawn. You can use these leaves as ground cover to protect the soil in garden beds over winter if you’d like. Plant Put bulbs in the ground now for colourful spring flowers. Seed any grass now before it gets too cold as well as the layer of grass will help protect the soil. Clean gutters Clean out gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages and ice build up during the winter months. Store Store outdoor furniture, hoses, planters, rain barrels and tools for the winter. Give them all a good clean so they’re ready for use in the spring. Winterize Cover any items that should be protected from snow and ice. AC units, outdoor grills, water fixtures etc. Safety Test all safety alarms, carbon monoxide and smoke detectors to ensure they’re in proper working order. Heating Test your furnace, clean or replace your filters. Consider having someone come in for a regular maintenance. Check Check all windows and doors, Make sure they are sealed correctly. Make repairs where needed. Caulk any seams or gaps on the interior. Winterize or replace older windows now. Be prepared Don’t get left unprepared. Make sure you have salt for driveways and pathways. Find your shovels now and test your snowblower. Taking these steps now will help secure your investment and keep your home safe, dry and comfortable.