6 steps for yard winterization

1. Inspection

Take advantage of fall to inspect your deck, fence, pergola and other outdoor structures. Winter definitely puts them to the test, and they need to hold up. Repair them if necessary.

To avoid water seepage, be sure to examine the roof, foundation and all caulking.

Check the roof to make sure the shingles can withstand high winds and snowstorms.

When shingle granules start piling up in the gutters, consider it a sign that the roof might need to be redone soon.

Inspect your foundation for cracks.

Seals are meant to prevent water and air seepage. Be sure to inspect the following:

• doors
• windows
• exterior cladding
• air vents
• lights

2. Pool winterization

Don’t winterize your pool until the water temperature is below 10°C. This will make it less likely for algae to grow. It will also make it easier to reopen in the spring.

Before emptying, clean thoroughly. Vacuum. Remove dead leaves. Backwash.

Check the pH. It should be between 7.2 and 7.6. Alkalinity should be between 80 and 120 parts per million (ppm). Apply treatments as necessary.

Add more chlorine or salt than usual.

Remove all accessories (ladder, pool cleaner, thermometer, etc.) and clean them before storing them.

Other steps? Lower the water level to your pool manufacturer's recommendations. Add the closure kit products to prevent algae from forming. Finally, consider installing a heavy-duty protective cover.

3. Garden furniture

Regular maintenance of your garden furniture will make it last longer... and make your yard a more welcoming oasis.

When cleaning your outdoor furniture, start with a dry cloth or brush. Then use a mixture of warm water and mild soap to scrub the surfaces. Rinse well with clean water and let air dry.

Avoid harsh cleaning agents as they can damage the material.

Whenever possible, store your furniture in a dry, sheltered space, such as a garage or garden shed. This is the best way to protect them from the elements.

If you can't store them indoors, place the furniture under a water-resistant protective cover. These covers will protect them from humidity and temperature variations.

Store cushions indoors rather than in your garden shed. Rodents love upholstery!

4. Sprinkler system drainage

To prevent damage, disconnect your garden hose. Then hold up one end to make the water flow out.

Once completely empty, store the hose in a cool, dry place.

Close the water valve leading to the outdoor tap. Open the tap and let the water run out.

The same goes for your rainwater collector. Empty it and store it indoors.

These precautions will extend the life of your sprinkler system and ensure that it's ready for next spring.

Do you have an irrigation system?

To stop your pipes from splitting, turn off the water before the temperature drops below 0°C. Also turn off the timer, if you have one.

Open the valve and let the water run out.

Using compressed air to drain the pipes is not recommended. You could damage your system if not done properly. Hire a specialist to do it for you.

Wrap the shut-off valve and above-ground piping with insulation to protect them from freezing.

5. Plant and garden winterization

When it comes to raking leaves, there are two schools of thought:

• do it in the fall as soon as they fall
• wait until spring

Both are equally valid. It's a matter of preference... and wind.

If you decide to wait until spring, at least pick up what's on the lawn, or compost it. Leaves tend to smother the lawn during the winter.

Shelter sensitive plants to help them survive the cold weather and temperature variations. Wrap them in canvas. Add a layer of mulch or dead leaves around them. This insulating layer will protect their roots from frost.

The final step to keeping your trees and shrubs healthy and beautiful is pruning dead, diseased or damaged branches. This will prevent the spread of disease and promote better growth in spring.

To improve air circulation, remove crossing scaffold branches.

Tidy the soil around trees and shrubs, removing dead leaves and debris. This reduces the risk of disease and pests.

6. Electrical installations

Unplug and store extension cords, appliances and lights you don't use in winter.

For those you plan to use all year round, opt for outdoor models, which are more resistant.

Make sure your sockets and switches are watertight. Replace the protective cover when it is broken or missing. Redo all frayed seals.

When the holidays are over, take down the Christmas lights. Why? Because heat can damage the cable sheath, increasing the risk of fire.

What about your home insurance?

Are you ready for winter? Take this opportunity to go over your home insurance coverage with your broker.