Winter in Ontario can be a beautiful, snowy wonderland, but it also brings biting cold, icy winds, and the risk of frozen pipes. If you’ve lived here for a while, you know that prepping your home for winter is non-negotiable.
A well-winterized home means fewer headaches, lower energy bills, and a cozy space to hibernate through the long, chilly months. Whether you’re new to the game or need a refresher, this guide will walk you through everything you need to get your home winter ready.
1. Get Your Heating System Ready to Roll
There’s nothing worse than turning on your furnace in November only to realize it’s not working. Your heating system will be doing the heavy lifting all winter, so give it some TLC before the cold really kicks in.
What to Do:
- Book a Furnace Tune-Up: A technician can spot issues, clean components, and replace worn-out parts. It’s money well spent to avoid mid-winter breakdowns.
- Change the Filter: Clean filters make your system run more efficiently. Set a reminder to swap it every month or two.
- Test Your Thermostat: Is it working properly? If you don’t have a programmable or smart thermostat yet, consider one—they save energy by lowering the heat when you’re not home.
- Check Your Vents: Make sure nothing’s blocking your vents—no one wants a couch hogging all the heat.
2. Seal Those Drafty Windows and Doors
Ontario winters are cold enough without icy drafts sneaking into your home. Gaps around windows and doors are like open invitations for Jack Frost to make himself comfortable.
How to Keep Drafts Out:
- Weatherstripping: If you see light coming through the sides of your doors, it’s time to replace the weatherstripping.
- Plastic Window Insulation Kits: These kits are a game-changer. The plastic film creates a buffer that keeps the cold out and the heat in.
- Caulking: Re-caulk any cracked areas around windows and doors. It’s a small job that can make a big difference.
- Door Sweeps: Install sweeps under exterior doors to block drafts from creeping in.
3. Insulate Your Attic and Roof
A poorly insulated attic can turn your home into a giant freezer. Since heat rises, the roof is often the biggest culprit when it comes to heat loss.
What You Can Do:
- Check the Attic Insulation: If you can see the floor joists, you probably need more insulation. In Ontario, aim for R-50 insulation or higher.
- Seal Gaps and Cracks: Look for spots where warm air might escape, like around pipes and vents, and fill them with foam sealant.
- Clear the Gutters: Clogged gutters can lead to ice dams, which can cause roof leaks. Clean them out before the snow hits.
- Inspect Your Roof: Look for damaged or missing shingles that could let water sneak in once the snow melts.
4. Protect Your Pipes from Freezing
Frozen pipes can burst and trust us — cleaning up after a flood in January is not fun. Protecting your plumbing is easier (and cheaper) than dealing with the aftermath of a burst pipe.
Pro Tips for Your Pipes:
- Drain Outdoor Faucets: Shut off the water supply to outdoor taps and drain any remaining water. Use faucet covers for extra protection.
- Wrap Exposed Pipes: Foam pipe insulation works wonders, especially for pipes in unheated areas like the garage or basement.
- Let Faucets Drip: On particularly cold nights, let a trickle of water run from faucets. It keeps water moving and prevents freezing.
- Seal Gaps: Check where pipes enter your house and seal any gaps that could let cold air in.
5. Use Window Treatments for Extra Insulation
Your curtains and blinds can do more than just make your home look nice—they can also help keep it warm.
How to Use Window Treatments for Warmth:
- Thermal Curtains: These heavy-duty curtains help trap heat inside and block cold air from coming in.
- Blinds and Curtains Together: Open them during sunny days to let in heat and close them at night to keep that heat in.
- Cellular Shades: If you want to take things up a notch, cellular shades are designed to insulate your windows with their honeycomb design.
6. Prep Your Fireplace and Chimney
A roaring fire on a cold night is peak cozy vibes, but if your fireplace isn’t maintained properly, it can cause more trouble than it’s worth.
How to Get Your Fireplace Ready:
- Inspect the Chimney: Have a professional clean it out to remove creosote, which is a fire hazard.
- Check the Damper: Make sure the damper opens, closes, and seals properly.
- Chimney Cap: If you don’t have one, get a chimney cap installed to keep snow, rain, and critters out.
- Fireproof Caulking: Use fire-resistant caulk around the hearth to block any sneaky drafts.
7. Be Ready for Snow and Ice Management
Ontario winters mean snow—lots of it. Staying ahead of the snow is easier than trying to dig yourself out after a storm.
What You’ll Need:
- Ice Melt: Stock up early. Look for eco-friendly or pet-safe options to avoid damaging your driveway and plants.
- Shovel or Snowblower: Make sure your snow-clearing gear is in good shape. If you’ve got a snowblower, now’s the time to make sure it starts.
- Roof Rake: This tool helps you clear heavy snow from your roof, preventing damage and reducing the risk of ice dams.
- Heating Mats for Walkways: If you hate shoveling, heated mats can keep your walkways snow-free with minimal effort.
8. Check Your Safety Equipment
Winter brings higher risks of house fires, carbon monoxide leaks, and power outages, so it’s important to be prepared.
Safety To-Dos:
- Test Smoke and CO Detectors: Change the batteries and make sure they’re working properly.
- Backup Generator: If you live in an area prone to power outages, a generator can keep your essentials running.
- Fire Extinguishers: Have at least one on every floor, especially near the kitchen and fireplace.
- Emergency Kit: Include flashlights, extra batteries, blankets, bottled water, and some non-perishable food.
9. Reverse Your Ceiling Fans
It sounds odd, but ceiling fans can actually help keep your home warmer in the winter.
How It Works:
Flip the switch on your ceiling fan so it runs clockwise. This pushes warm air that gathers near the ceiling back down into the room, helping to keep things nice and toasty.
10. Don’t Forget About Your Foundation
Your foundation can let in cold air and moisture if it’s not properly sealed. A little attention here can save you from future headaches.
How to Protect Your Foundation:
- Seal Cracks: Use masonry sealant or foam to fill any gaps or cracks in your foundation.
- Window Well Covers: Covering your basement windows keeps snow and water out.
- Check for Moisture: Make sure the walls in your basement are dry—any damp spots could turn into mold problems over the winter.
Winterizing your home in Ontario doesn’t have to be a chore. A little effort in the fall can make a huge difference once the snow starts flying. From sealing windows to wrapping pipes, every step you take helps keep your home warm, comfortable, and safe all winter long. Plus, you’ll save money on heating bills—and who doesn’t want that?
So, grab your caulking gun, stock up on ice melt, and get your home winter-ready. When the first big snowfall hits, you’ll be glad you did! Stay warm out there!
