Snow, freezing rain, ice and sudden thaws put your home to the test every Canadian winter. A burst pipe or ice dam can turn a cold snap into thousands of dollars in damage.
Our free Winter Preparedness Checklist shows you exactly what to check, inside and out, so you can catch small problems before they become big ones.
Winter Damage Is Easier to Prevent Than to Repair
Winter looks different across Canada. Coastal regions face heavy rain, wind and swinging temperatures, while other areas brace for deep snow, freezing rain and weeks of bitter cold.
Your home has its own weak spots, too. An aging roof, exposed pipes, poor drainage or gaps around windows and doors can all invite trouble once the temperature drops.
Conditions can change in hours. A little preparation now means fewer surprises later, and a faster, calmer response if something does go wrong.
4 Essential Steps to Winter-Proof Your Home
Check Your Roof and Gutters
Replace damaged shingles and clear gutters and downspouts. Make sure water drains away from your foundation to head off leaks, ice dams and flooding.
Protect Your Pipes
Insulate exposed pipes and disconnect outdoor hoses. Check your basement and other vulnerable areas for cracks, drafts and signs of water getting in.
Make Heating and Fire Safety a Priority
Have your heating equipment serviced and your fireplace and chimney inspected. Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms before the cold sets in.
Get Ready for the Storm
Keep an eye on weather alerts, clear walkways of snow and ice, secure outdoor items and watch for heavy snow buildup on your roof.
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Our free Winter Preparedness Checklist covers more of what to inspect and when, so nothing gets missed.
When Winter Damage Happens, We’re Ready
Even the best preparation can’t stop every storm. If water, ice or wind damage strikes your home, First Onsite is on call around the clock.
As a leading Canadian property restoration company, we provide 24/7 emergency response for water damage, flooding, storm damage and other property emergencies. From emergency mitigation through restoration and reconstruction, we’ll help you get back to normal.
