Snow, Ice, and Everything Nice: Mastering Winter Home Maintenance

As the winter season approaches, preparing our homes for the challenges of colder temperatures and harsh conditions becomes imperative. With winter on the horizon, we anticipate not only the allure of cozy nights by the fire but also the potential hazards that colder weather can bring to our homes. We want to share a few tips and tricks to help you protect your home. From preventative measures to responsive strategies, discover how a considerate approach to customer care policies and home maintenance can ensure your winter is warm and worry-free!

In addition to safeguarding your home against the winter elements, staying informed about your rights and resources as a homeowner is equally crucial. Tarion offers a detailed guide on warranties, coverage and everything tailored for new home buyers. If you need help figuring out where to start with home maintenance, Tarion’s website features a dedicated page offering valuable guidance for every month and season. Whether you dedicate an afternoon to completing the checklist or prefer a more gradual approach; splitting up the list and completing 2-3 items each week, we recommend managing these monthly maintenance items. Tarion is your go-to resource for ensuring your home remains in optimal condition throughout the years.

Winter Home Maintenance Checklist
Here’s a valuable winter home checklist we’ve gathered from Tarion’s website:

December:

• Check air ducts for debris and clean if necessary.
• Check for excessive snow on the roof and arrange for removal if necessary.
• Clean or replace the furnace filter.
• Check and clean the heat recovery ventilator (HRV); wash or replace the filter.
• Clean the humidifier and check for condensation and proper humidity levels.
• Check and reset the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

And, to get you prepared for the next month, here’s a preview of January’s winter maintenance checklist:

January:

• Clean or replace the furnace filter.
• Check and clean the heat recovery ventilator (HRV); wash or replace the filter.
• Check the furnace fan belt for wear or looseness.
• Check the water heater for leaks.
• Check or clean exhaust fans.
• Clean the humidifier and check for condensation and proper humidity levels.
• Remove snow and ice from roof overhang/vents.
• Check and reset the ground fault circuit interrupter (GFCI).
• Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors.

Escaping the Cold: Home Heating Tips

As you prepare your home for the winter months, especially if you plan to leave town to escape the cold weather, it’s crucial not to overlook the importance of keeping your home warm. While it might be tempting to turn off the heat to save money during a vacation or when away for the holidays, completely shutting off the heat is not advisable. Doing so puts your home at risk of pipes freezing and bursting, leading to more significant problems in the future.

Additionally, returning to a frigid home is not desirable. To prevent the freezing and bursting of pipes, shut off the exterior water supply; this is typically done in the late fall months, and maintain a reasonable temperature in your home. Taking these precautions will help ensure that your home remains in good condition, even when you’re away during the winter season.

Let It Snow! Protect Your Roof Winter Tips

Ontario winters can bring a substantial amount of snow, often unexpectedly. Failing to address snow removal from roofs can result in a phenomenon known as ice damming, typically occurring in the milder winter months when snow is still prevalent. When snow accumulates on your roof, exposure to sunlight and rising exterior temperatures can cause it to melt, leading to pooled water on the roof and potentially beneath the shingles. This, in turn, may damage wood framing, wall finishes, eavestroughs, and personal belongings. Ice damming poses both safety and structural concerns. To proactively address snowfall on your roof, it is advisable to use a roof rake to clear snow. These tools can be readily found in various hardware stores. Ice melters or salt seem like the easy solution, but this can damage shingles, causing them to deteriorate over time. Instead, consider hiring a professional for this task. Clearing snow from the roof can be hazardous, and professionals are equipped to handle the job safely and effectively, ensuring the well-being of your home during the winter months.

We hope this blog hasn’t scared you away from the snow but has provided you with valuable guidance on navigating winter maintenance both inside and outside your home! Embracing the beauty of winter while ensuring your home remains cozy and well-maintained is the key to enjoying the season to its fullest. For more information about Tarion and comprehensive guidance for every season, visit their website at https://www.tarion.com/. Stay warm and worry-free this winter!