How to Prepare Your Home for Winter in Ontario: The Ultimate Winter Home Maintenance Ontario Checklist

As fall turns into winter, homes across Ontario face freezing temperatures, snow, ice dams, and heavy moisture — all of which can cause expensive damage if left unchecked.Taking a few proactive steps now can protect your home, save you money, and help you stay comfortable all winter long.

Whether you’re a homeowner looking for a DIY checklist or you’d rather hire trusted professionals, this winter home maintenance Ontario guide covers everything you need to know.

1. Roof Inspection & Repair Before Snow Hits

Your roof is your home’s first line of defence against winter weather.Inspect it early to catch small issues before they become leaks or structural problems.

Checking roof shingles before snowfall prevents leaks and ice dams.

Checklist:

• Look for cracked, curled, or missing shingles.

• Check flashing, valleys, and skylights for gaps.

• Inspect your attic for water stains or daylight showing through the roof boards.

• Remove debris like leaves or branches.

🔗 Need professional help? Book a roof inspection with 24H Contracting Services

2. Clean & Secure Gutters and Downspouts

Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and freeze — leading to ice dams, leaks, and damaged fascia.Before the first snowfall:

• Remove leaves and buildup.

• Flush gutters with a garden hose to check for proper flow.

• Install gutter guards if possible.

• Make sure downspouts discharge water at least 3–4 feet away from your foundation.

📍 Pro Tip: Schedule a seasonal property maintenance service to clean and inspect your gutters professionally.

3. Seal Windows and Doors to Prevent Drafts

Drafts are one of the main reasons for energy loss during Ontario winters. To keep your heating bills low and comfort high:

• Check around window frames and door edges for leaks.

• Apply weatherstripping or caulking where needed.

• Use door sweeps to prevent cold air from entering.

• Consider upgrading to double-pane or energy-efficient windows.

• Visit the Government of Ontario Energy Efficiency Tips for Homeowners for mroe.

💡 DIY Tip: Hold a candle or incense stick near the frame — if the flame flickers, you’ve got a draft.

4. Inspect Attic Insulation and Ventilation

A well-insulated and ventilated attic helps regulate heat and prevents ice buildup on your roof.

What to check:

• Insulation depth meets Ontario’s recommended R-value.

• No air leaks around plumbing vents or light fixtures.

• Soffit and ridge vents are clear to allow airflow.

This one’s best handled by a pro if you’re not sure what to look for.🔗 Schedule an attic and insulation assessment.

5. Protect Pipes and Outdoor Plumbing

Frozen pipes are one of the most common (and expensive) winter emergencies.

Here’s how to avoid them:

• Insulate exposed pipes in basements, crawl spaces, and garages.

• Drain and shut off outdoor faucets and sprinkler systems.

• Keep your home heated to at least 15°C (59°F) — even when away.

If you suspect your pipes have frozen, call a licensed contractor immediately for professional thawing and repair.

HVAC, Furnace, and Chimney Check — Key to Winter Home Maintenance in Ontario

Your heating system works overtime during the winter — make sure it’s ready.

To-do list:

• Replace or clean furnace filters monthly.

• Scheduling regular HVAC service is an important part of winter home maintenance in Ontario.

• Clean chimneys and flues for proper airflow.

• Test carbon monoxide and smoke detectors.

Seasonal HVAC maintenance improves energy efficiency and prevents breakdowns.

📞 Contact 24H Contracting Services if you need help inspecting or repairing your heating system before the deep freeze hits.

7. Exterior Maintenance & Landscaping

A little exterior prep goes a long way in preventing winter damage:

• Trim overhanging branches near your roof.

• Seal cracks in driveways, walkways, and patios.

• Store or cover outdoor furniture.

• Check retaining walls, railings, and steps for stability.

💡Pro Tip: Ice expanding in small cracks can cause concrete and brick to split — repair before temperatures drop.

8. Test Emergency Systems and Backup Power

Be ready for anything winter throws at you:

• Test sump pumps and ensure discharge lines aren’t frozen.

• Inspect generators and backup batteries.

• Check emergency lighting and flashlights.

• Keep salt, shovels, and snow brushes accessible.

When the temperature dips below freezing, you’ll thank yourself for this prep.

9. DIY vs. Professional Help — When to Call a Pro

Do it yourself:

• Sealing small gaps, cleaning gutters, draining hoses, testing detectors.

Hire a professional:

• Roof or structural repairs.

• Insulation and ventilation upgrades.

• Plumbing or furnace issues.

• Persistent leaks, drafts, or mold.

When safety or longevity is on the line, a licensed contractor ensures the job gets done right. Explore professional winter maintenance services.

Benefits of Winter Home Maintenance

Investing time (or hiring pros) to winterize your home delivers real returns:

• Prevents frozen pipes and roof leaks.

• Boosts heating efficiency and reduces utility bills.

• Extends the life of your home systems.

• Increases comfort and peace of mind.

You can’t control Ontario’s weather — but you can control your home’s readiness.

Trusted local contractors ready for winter inspections across the GTA.

Final Thoughts

Your home deserves protection from the elements. With the right planning, inspection, and maintenance, you can enjoy a warm, worry-free winter.

If you’d like professional support with winter home maintenance in Ontario, our team at 24H Contracting Services is ready to help — day or night.

📍 Serving the Greater Toronto Area 🌐 www.24hcontracting.ca 📞 Contact us for your free seasonal inspection today.