Preparing Your Edmonton Home for Snow Season

Winter in Edmonton, Alberta, is more than just cold temperatures—it’s a season of heavy snow, icy conditions, and chilly winds. At Gateway Builders, we know how important it is for homeowners to ensure their houses are well-prepared to face the challenges of snow season. Whether you’re a long-time Edmonton resident or new to the area, prepping your home for the cold months ahead can help protect your property and save you from unexpected headaches when temperatures drop. Here’s our expert guide to getting your home ready for a snowy winter.

1. Inspect and Maintain Your Roof

One of the most crucial areas to check before winter is your roof. Edmonton sees an average of 123 cm of snow each year, and that heavy snowfall can quickly pile up, leading to potential leaks, ice dams, or even structural damage.

Preparation tips:

Roof inspection: Have a professional inspect your roof for missing or damaged shingles, cracks, or weak spots that could lead to leaks.
Clear gutters and downspouts: Clogged gutters can cause water buildup that freezes into dangerous ice dams, damaging your roof. Ensure all leaves and debris are cleared out so water can flow freely.
Install heat cables: Consider adding heat cables to your roof and gutters to prevent snow from accumulating and turning into ice dams.

2. Seal Windows and Doors

Cold drafts seeping through windows and doors can increase your heating bill and make your home uncomfortable during Edmonton’s coldest months.

Preparation tips:

Weatherstripping: Replace any worn-out weatherstripping around windows and doors to ensure they’re sealed properly against drafts.
Caulking: Inspect the exterior caulking around windows and doors. If you notice any cracks or gaps, reseal them to prevent air leaks.
Install storm doors and windows: Adding storm windows or doors provides an extra layer of insulation and can significantly improve energy efficiency during the winter.

3. Prepare Your Furnace and Heating System

Your furnace is your best friend during an Edmonton winter, so making sure it’s in top shape is essential.

Preparation tips:

Furnace maintenance: Schedule a professional furnace inspection and cleaning to ensure it’s working efficiently. Replace air filters to improve air quality and heating performance.
Test your thermostat: Make sure your thermostat is functioning properly. Consider upgrading to a programmable thermostat to save energy by adjusting the temperature based on your daily routine.
Check for drafts: Ensure that your home’s ventilation system is clean and unobstructed to allow for proper airflow and heating.

4. Insulate Pipes to Prevent Freezing

When temperatures plummet in Edmonton, exposed pipes are at risk of freezing, which can lead to bursts and flooding.

Preparation tips:

Pipe insulation: Insulate pipes in unheated areas such as basements, garages, and crawl spaces. Foam pipe insulation or heat tape can help prevent pipes from freezing.
Seal cracks: Check for any cracks or holes in walls and foundations that might expose pipes to cold air. Seal them up with caulk or spray foam insulation.
Let faucets drip: During extreme cold snaps, allowing a small trickle of water to flow through your faucets can help prevent pipes from freezing.

5. Stock Up on Winter Essentials

Edmonton winters can be unpredictable, with sudden snowfalls and freezing temperatures. It’s important to be ready for anything the season throws your way.

Preparation tips:

Snow removal equipment: Ensure you have the right tools, such as a snowblower, shovel, and ice melt, to keep driveways and walkways clear. Make sure to maintain and service snowblowers before the first big snowfall.
Emergency supplies: Power outages can happen during severe snowstorms. Keep an emergency kit that includes flashlights, batteries, blankets, non-perishable food, and bottled water.
Check smoke and carbon monoxide detectors: With furnaces running more frequently, it’s important to ensure your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly.

6. Winterize Your Yard

Though your garden might not be top of mind during the winter, protecting your outdoor space from harsh weather can save you from costly repairs once spring arrives.

Preparation tips:

Trim trees and branches: Heavy snow and ice can cause tree branches to break, potentially damaging your home or car. Trim any branches that hang over your house or driveway.
Cover outdoor furniture: Store or cover outdoor furniture to prevent snow and ice damage.
Drain outdoor faucets and hoses: Disconnect hoses and drain outdoor faucets to prevent water from freezing and causing damage.

7. Plan for Snow and Ice Management

In Edmonton, snow buildup around your home can lead to water damage and other issues.

Preparation tips:

Shovel regularly: Clear snow from your driveway, walkways, and any areas where snow might pile up against your house foundation. This helps prevent water from seeping in when the snow melts.
Salt and de-icer: Use ice melt or salt on pathways and steps to reduce the risk of slipping and falling on icy surfaces.
Consider snow guards: If you have a metal roof, snow guards can help prevent large amounts of snow from sliding off at once, which can be dangerous.

Final Thoughts

At Gateway Builders, we believe that preparation is key to surviving—and thriving—during Edmonton’s snow season. By taking the time to winterize your home, you’ll not only protect your property from the elements but also ensure that your family stays safe and comfortable all winter long.

For more expert advice or assistance in preparing your home for winter, don’t hesitate to contact us at Gateway Builders. We’re here to help you weather the season with confidence!