The Ultimate Ottawa Spring Home Maintenance Checklist

Spring in Ottawa is a relief. The Rideau Canal melts, the tulips start poking through the soil, and we finally put away the heavy parkas.

But for your home, spring is actually the most dangerous season of the year.

As the snow melts and the spring rains begin, your home is suddenly fighting off thousands of litres of water. If your drainage systems are not ready, that water will find the path of least resistance, which is usually right into your basement.

As a Certified Master Inspector, I see the same preventable issues every April and May. Here is how you can protect your biggest investment without spending a fortune.

Start with the "Big Thaw"

Before you even think about planting flowers, you need to take a walk around your house. You are looking for one specific thing: Grading.

Over the winter, the soil around your foundation can settle. If the ground slopes towards your house, all that melting snow is going to run right against your foundation wall. You want to see a clear slope away from the house. If you see a dip or a low spot near the brick, fill it in with topsoil immediately. It is the cheapest waterproofing you will ever do.

While you are out there, check your downspouts. They should be extending at least 4 to 6 feet away from the house. If they fell off during a winter storm or got crushed by a snowbank, reattach them now. You do not want roof water dumping right next to your basement window.

Check Your "Emergency" Systems

If you live in Kanata, Barrhaven, or anywhere with a high water table, your sump pump is about to become the most important appliance in your house.

You need to know it works before the next big rainstorm.

• Dump a bucket of water into the pit. Watch the float rise and listen for the pump to kick on. It should empty the pit quickly and shut off.

• Check the backup. If you have a battery backup pump, make sure the battery is holding a charge. Spring storms often bring power outages, and a sump pump that doesn't work when the power is out is useless.

The Roof and Gutters

You do not need to climb a ladder to check your roof. In fact, I recommend you stay on the ground. Grab a pair of binoculars and scan your shingles from the driveway.

You are looking for shingles that are curling up at the edges or missing entirely. Also, take a look at the ground near your downspouts. If you see a lot of "shingle grit" (it looks like coarse sand), that is a sign your roof is aging and might need a professional look.

Once the snow is gone, you have to tackle the gutters. I know it is a messy job, but winter winds blow twigs and leaves into them, and ice dams can block the flow. If your gutters are clogged, that water will overflow and pour directly down your walls, bypassing your drainage system entirely.

Getting Ready for Heat

It is tempting to turn on the Air Conditioner the first time the thermometer hits 20°C, but you should wait.

Running your AC when it is too cold outside can actually damage the compressor. Wait until the outdoor temperature has been consistently above 16°C (61°F) for at least 24 hours.

Before you start it up, go outside and take the winter cover off. I have seen many homeowners forget this step, and running the unit with the cover on will destroy it in minutes. While you are there, clear away any dead leaves or tall grass that might be blocking the fan. The unit needs to "breathe" to work efficiently.

Don't Forget the Hose Bibs

Finally, check your outdoor faucets. If a hose was left attached over the winter, the water inside the pipe might have frozen and cracked the copper.

To test this, turn on the water valve inside your basement, then go outside and turn on the spigot. Place your thumb over the opening. If you can stop the flow of water easily with just your thumb, you might have a crack in the pipe inside the wall that is leaking pressure (and water) into your home.

Conclusion

Spending a Saturday afternoon on these simple tasks can save you thousands of dollars in flood repairs. Your home takes care of you all winter, and spring is the time to return the favour. If you find something concerning during your walk-around, like a crack in the foundation or a roof that looks worn out, don't guess. Contact A to Z Home Inspections for a maintenance inspection. We can give you a clear, professional picture of exactly what needs to be fixed so you can enjoy the warm weather worry-free.