Metro Vancouver’s wet season starts early and runs long, so the pre-winter window is short. Here’s a practical checklist for the exterior maintenance that matters most before the rain settles in.
1. Roof inspection
Check for missing, cracked or lifted shingles before the heavy rain starts — a small gap found in October is a five-minute fix; the same gap found in January after weeks of rain is a leak.
2. Gutter cleaning
Clear leaves, needles and twigs left over from fall before the November rain arrives. A gutter that can’t drain sends water over the edge instead of away from the house, which is where most fall-to-winter water damage starts.
3. Window and door seals
Gaps in weatherstripping let in both cold air and moisture. Checking seals now is a lot less work than dealing with condensation or drafts once the temperature drops.
4. Heating system maintenance
Replace filters and have the system checked before you need it daily. A heating system that’s been idle since spring is more likely to reveal a problem on the first cold morning than during a scheduled check in October.
5. Insulation inspection
Gaps or compressed insulation show up as higher heating bills and cold spots — worth a look while it’s still comfortable to be in the attic or crawlspace.
6. Chimney and fireplace cleaning
If the fireplace gets used through winter, a professional chimney sweep before the first fire clears creosote buildup and confirms the flue is clear.
7. Outdoor faucet protection
Disconnect and drain hoses, and insulate exposed faucets. A frozen outdoor tap can crack pipework that’s expensive to access and repair.
8. Lawn and garden prep
Trim back growth that’s in contact with siding or gutters, and clear dead foliage near the foundation — it holds moisture against the building through winter.
9. Smoke and carbon monoxide detectors
Test units and replace batteries. This one takes five minutes and matters more than anything else on this list.
10. Store outdoor furniture
Cover or bring in furniture that isn’t rated for winter weather, so it’s not degrading in the driveway all season.
Most of this is straightforward DIY. The two items worth having a professional handle are the roof and gutters — they’re the ones where debris and damage aren’t visible from the ground, and where a missed spot causes the most water damage over winter. If it’s been a while since yours were done, a gutter cleaning is a good place to start.