Essential Repair Tips for Canadian Winter

Preparing Your Home's Exterior

Roof Inspection and Repairs

Your roof is your first line of defense against winter's fury. Before the snow begins to fall, it's crucial to inspect your roof thoroughly and address any issues:

• Check for damaged or missing shingles - Replace any that show signs of damage or wear. Even small imperfections can lead to major leaks when subject to freeze-thaw cycles.
• Secure loose flashing - Areas around chimneys, vents, and skylights are common points of failure. Ensure all flashing is securely fastened and sealed.
• Clean your gutters thoroughly - Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which force melting snow under your shingles, causing interior damage.
• Trim overhanging branches - Heavy snow can cause branches to break and damage your roof. Keep trees trimmed back at least 3 meters from your roof line.

Exterior Wall Maintenance

Your home's siding and exterior walls need special attention before winter:

• Seal cracks and gaps - Use appropriate caulking to seal any visible cracks in siding, around windows, and door frames.
• Repair damaged siding - Replace any cracked, warped, or damaged siding panels before winter sets in.
• Check exterior paint - Peeling paint can allow moisture to penetrate, leading to wood rot. Touch up as needed or schedule a full repaint if extensive peeling is present.

Foundation Inspection

Your foundation is particularly vulnerable during freeze-thaw cycles:

• Fill cracks - Even small foundation cracks should be filled with an appropriate masonry product designed for your foundation type.
• Check grading - Ensure the ground slopes away from your foundation to direct melting snow away from your home.
• Clear snow from foundation walls - During winter, periodically remove snow that accumulates against your foundation to prevent moisture penetration during thaws.

Plumbing Protection

Frozen pipes can cause thousands of dollars in damage and leave you without water during the coldest days:

Insulating Exposed Pipes

Identify vulnerable pipes and protect them:

• Insulate pipes in unheated areas - Use foam pipe insulation sleeves on pipes in basements, crawl spaces, attics, and garages.
• Heat tape for extremely vulnerable pipes - Consider installing heat tape or heating cables on pipes with a history of freezing.
• Seal air leaks - Use caulk or spray foam to seal gaps where pipes enter your home, preventing cold air from reaching pipes.

Outdoor Plumbing Preparation

Don't forget your exterior plumbing systems:

• Disconnect and drain garden hoses - Left connected, they can cause ice to back up into your home's pipes.
• Shut off exterior water valves - Most homes have a separate shutoff for exterior faucets. Close these and drain the lines.
• Protect outdoor faucets - Install insulated covers over outdoor spigots for an extra layer of protection.

Emergency Preparation

Know how to respond if pipes begin to freeze:

• Locate your main water shutoff valve - Every household member should know where this is and how to operate it.
• Keep cabinet doors open - During severe cold snaps, open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warm air to circulate around pipes.
• Allow faucets to drip - A slight drip can prevent pipes from freezing during extreme cold.

Heating System Maintenance

Your heating system works hardest during winter. Make sure it's up to the task:

Furnace Service

Professional maintenance is key:

• Schedule professional inspection - Have your furnace or boiler inspected and serviced by a qualified technician before the heating season begins.
• Replace filters regularly - Clean or replace furnace filters monthly during winter to maintain efficiency and air quality.
• Check vents and registers - Ensure all vents and registers are clean, unobstructed, and properly adjusted to distribute heat evenly.

Alternative Heating Sources

If you use supplemental heating, ensure safety:

• Chimney and fireplace inspection - Have chimneys inspected and cleaned annually to prevent chimney fires.
• Check wood stoves and inserts - Inspect door gaskets, firebricks, and other components for damage.
• Test safety equipment - Verify that smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are working properly throughout your home.

Insulation and Draft Prevention

Proper insulation not only keeps you comfortable but can significantly reduce heating costs:

Attic Insulation

Heat rises, making attic insulation crucial:

• Check insulation levels - Canadian homes should have at least R-50 in attics. Add more if needed.
• Ensure proper ventilation - Attic ventilation prevents moisture buildup that can damage insulation and cause mold.
• Seal attic air leaks - Check for and seal gaps around pipes, vents, exhaust fans, and light fixtures before adding insulation.

Window and Door Protection

Windows and doors are common sources of heat loss:

• Apply weatherstripping - Replace worn weatherstripping around doors and operable windows.
• Install window film - Apply insulating window film to single-pane windows to reduce heat loss.
• Use draft stoppers - Place fabric draft stoppers at the bottom of doors to prevent cold air infiltration.
• Consider storm windows - If you have older windows, installing storm windows can significantly improve insulation.

Snow and Ice Management

Proper snow and ice management prevents damage and injury:

Roof Snow Removal

Excessive snow accumulation can damage your roof:

• Use a roof rake - Remove snow from your roof using a roof rake with an extended handle that allows you to work from the ground.
• Watch for ice dams - Signs include icicles forming along the eaves and water stains on interior ceilings.
• Professional removal - For heavy accumulation or steep roofs, hire professionals with proper safety equipment.

Walkways and Driveways

Maintain safe access to your home:

• Choose ice melt carefully - Traditional rock salt can damage concrete and plants. Consider pet-safe and concrete-safe alternatives.
• Prepare paths - Before the first snow, mark the edges of walkways and driveways to guide snow clearing and prevent landscape damage.
• Check outdoor lighting - Ensure pathways are well-lit during the shorter winter days for safety.

Emergency Preparedness

Winter storms can lead to power outages and isolation:

• Create an emergency kit - Include flashlights, batteries, non-perishable food, water, first aid supplies, and blankets.
• Alternative power - Consider a generator if you live in an area prone to outages.
• Communication plan - Establish how family members will communicate during emergencies.
• Backup heating - Have a safe alternative heating source that doesn't require electricity.