Preparing Your Calgary Home for Winter Wind and Snow

Preparing your Calgary home for the winter means getting ready for harsh winds, heavy snow, and icy conditions. To help protect your home, especially your roof, driveways, and gutters, and to avoid costly repairs, here are some essential tips:

1. Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof

Ice dams form when heat from your home melts snow on the roof, and the water refreezes at the eaves, causing backups that can lead to leaks. To prevent this:

Clear your gutters before the first snowfall to ensure proper drainage. Insulate your attic to minimize heat loss, which can cause uneven snow melting. Consider using de-icing cables in problem areas to melt ice and snow safely​. After heavy snow, use a roof rake to safely remove excess snow, which reduces the chances of ice dams forming.

2. Manage Snow Accumulation on Driveways

Heavy snow can turn your driveway into an ice rink if not properly maintained. Shovel or blow snow regularly to prevent large buildups of snow that can freeze. Use eco-friendly ice melts to reduce ice without damaging your driveway or nearby soil. Look for options that are pet-friendly and won’t corrode your driveway surface. Seal any cracks in your driveway before winter sets in, as water can seep in and freeze, causing further damage.

3. Gutter Maintenance

Well-maintained gutters prevent water from accumulating and freezing, which can lead to ice dams and roof damage. Clean your gutters of leaves and debris in the fall to ensure proper water flow during the winter months​. Consider installing gutter guards to reduce the amount of debris that collects throughout the season.

4. Windproof Your Home

Winter winds in Calgary can be strong, and reinforcing your home is key to protecting it. Reinforce windows and doors by applying weatherstripping or caulking around the edges to prevent drafts. This also helps with energy efficiency by keeping the cold air out. If you have a chimney or roof vents, ensure they are properly sealed to avoid wind drafts entering your home. Secure outdoor items, like patio furniture, to prevent damage during wind storms​.

5. Preventing Water line freezing

As the temperature begins to drop, homeowners need to be vigilant about preventing water damage, a common yet avoidable issue during the colder months. One of the primary concerns is water line freezing. When water in your pipes freezes, it expands and can cause the pipes to burst, leading to significant damage and costly repairs.

To prevent this, it's crucial to turn off your outside water tap when the temperature drops below freezing. This simple step can make a huge difference in protecting your home from potential water damage. After turning off the tap, ensure that you drain any remaining water from the pipe by opening the tap and letting it run until it stops. This will help prevent any residual water from freezing inside the pipe.

Another often overlooked area is your garden hose. Leaving a hose attached to an outdoor faucet can trap water in the faucet and connected pipes, increasing the risk of freezing and bursting. Before winter sets in, disconnect your garden hose, drain it completely, and store it indoors. It’s also a good idea to invest in a frost-free faucet or an insulated cover for additional protection.

6. Protect Your Home from Heavy Snow and Structural Damage

Excessive snow accumulation can cause structural damage to your roof. Use a snow rake to keep your roof clear, particularly in areas prone to large snow buildups. If needed, hire professionals to inspect your roof structure for potential weaknesses. Investing in proper roof maintenance can save you significant repair costs down the road​.

By following these steps, you can ensure that your home is well-prepared for Calgary’s winter, keeping it safe from the elements and maintaining its curb appeal throughout the season.

For questions about buying or selling real estate, contact Ed Black today at (403) 830-8510.

Ed Black
REALTOR®

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