Winnipeg seasonal home checklist

After freeze-thaw season, check for winter damage and water management.

• Inspect the foundation

  Winnipeg's clay soil shifts over winter — look for new cracks and seal them before water gets in.

• Test the sump pump

  Pour water into the pit to confirm it kicks on, and add a battery backup before spring melt.

• Clear eavestroughs & check grading

  Make sure downspouts extend away from the house so meltwater drains off, not toward the foundation.

• Inspect the roof

  Look for shingles lifted or damaged by ice dams and wind over the winter.

Tackle exterior upkeep and keep the basement cool and dry.

• Service the A/C

  Clean or replace filters and clear the outdoor unit before the first heat wave.

• Caulk & paint the exterior

  Reseal gaps around windows, doors, and trim while it's warm and dry.

• Check for basement moisture

  Humid summers can mean condensation — watch for damp spots and run a dehumidifier if needed.

• Maintain deck & driveway

  Reseal the deck and fill driveway and walkway cracks before they widen.

Get ahead of the freeze — the most important season in Winnipeg.

• Shut off & drain hose bibs

  Disconnect hoses and drain outdoor taps before the first freeze to prevent burst pipes.

• Service the furnace

  Book a furnace check and replace the filter before heating season.

• Clean the eavestroughs

  Clear leaves before they freeze so meltwater can drain and ice dams have less to feed on.

• Seal drafts

  Add or replace weatherstripping on doors and windows to cut heat loss and ice buildup.

Watch for ice, snow load, and condensation through the deep cold.

• Watch for ice dams

  Heavy ice along the eaves means heat is escaping the attic — clear snow and improve insulation and ventilation.

• Keep snow off the foundation

  Don't pile snow against the house; meltwater during thaws can find its way into the basement.

• Check the sump during thaws

  Mid-winter melts can flood a basement — make sure the pump still runs.

• Manage indoor humidity

  Lower humidity to stop window condensation and frost; run bath and kitchen fans and check the HRV.