Realtors Insights: Home Maintenance for Central AB

Let’s Talk Home Maintenance: What You Need to Watch for in Central Alberta

Buying a home is exciting—there’s nothing quite like the feeling of having a space to truly call your own. But as you settle into homeownership in especially living in Central Alberta, there are a few things you’ll want to keep an eye on. Our weather has its quirks, and surprisingly our homes aren’t indestructible, our whether can affect your home if you’re not prepared. I’ve had my own ups and downs with homeownership, I thought we should discuss some of the main topics, to help keep everyone prepared! Let’s dive into a few practical tips to keep your home in tip-top shape.

• Hot Water Tanks Work Hard Here

With our dry winters and hard water in many areas, hot water tanks can take a bit of a beating. On average, they last about 10 years, but regular maintenance, like flushing out sediment buildup, can stretch that lifespan. No one wants to deal with a surprise cold shower in January, so it’s worth adding this to your annual to-do list.

• Your Roof Deals with a Lot

Between summer hail, winter snow, and gusty windstorms, your roof is a workhorse. Make it a habit to glance up after big storms to spot missing or damaged shingles. And if you’re replacing your roof, consider upgrades like ice and water shields to protect against ice dams when the snow starts melting. It’s all about preventing those little issues from becoming big headaches.

• Decks and Fences Need Some TLC

The sun beats down in the summer, and frost heave in the winter can push fence posts or deck footings around. To keep things looking sharp, reseal or stain your wood every couple of years. It’s a simple way to prevent cracks and warping while keeping your outdoor spaces inviting.

• Your Furnace is Your Winter MVP

Our winters are long, and your furnace works hard to keep your home cozy. Changing the filter regularly is an easy way to keep it running efficiently—and to save on those heating bills. If your furnace is getting up there in age (15–20 years), it might be time to start budgeting for a replacement. Trust me, this is one thing you don’t want it to break down when it’s -30°C outside.

• Foundations Can Shift—Literally

With the freeze-thaw cycles we get here, it’s not uncommon for soil to shift and put pressure on your home’s foundation. Keep an eye out for cracks in your basement walls or floors that suddenly seem uneven. Proper drainage is key—clean your eavestroughs and make sure water is directed away from your house to avoid trouble.

• Winter Prep is a Big Deal

Winter in Central Alberta isn’t just a season—it’s a lifestyle. Before the snow flies, check your weatherstripping around windows and doors to keep drafts out. Insulate your pipes to avoid freezing and peek in your attic to ensure there’s enough insulation to prevent ice dams. And don’t forget to test the snowblower—it’s always better to discover an issue before the first big dump of snow.

Keeping It All in Perspective

Owning a home is a big deal, and it’s normal to feel a little overwhelmed at times. The good news? You don’t have to tackle everything at once. Start with the basics, plan for routine maintenance, and before you know it, you’ll be an old pro.

If you’re ever unsure or need advice, don’t hesitate to reach out—I’m here to help. Homeownership is an adventure, and it takes a team of people to keep everything running efficiently.  A little preparation, and some help along the way can make all the difference in keeping your home a safe, happy place for years to come.