Getting Ready for Winter

With memories of the deep freezes of the last two winters fresh in our minds, we must all take the appropriate steps to prepare our vehicles and homes for the changing of the seasons. To help you spend more time thinking of warm fireplaces and hot chocolate, we have created a brief list of things to remember!

PREPARING YOUR VEHICLES FOR WINTER

• Winter Tires – Winter tires should be near the top of your list when planning for winter. While all-season tires claim to be capable year-round, the soft rubber composition of winter tires allows for increased contact and therefore traction on the road during the cold of winter. Improved traction means better control and shortened braking distances.
  • If you have Winter Tires for your vehicle, you may qualify for a modest discount from your insurer on the renewal of your policy. Generally, to be eligible for the discount, you must have a set of four tires specifically designed for winter (not all-season) on your vehicle from November to April. We recommend you keep your receipt for the purchase or installation of the tires, if the Insurer requests them. Winter tires usually have a lifespan of about 5 years, so be sure to get your tires inspected or replaced regularly. The average Winter Tire discount is about 2% – 3%. If your vehicle qualifies for this discount, give our office a call or email so that we can apply the discount on renewal.

PREPARING YOUR HOME FOR WINTER

• Eavestroughs – Heavy snows can lead to a build-up of debris on your roof and a fast melt can test the drainage of even the most recently updated roofs. Be sure to clear out your eavestroughs of falling leaves and other clutter to minimize any backing up and potential leakage or drainage issues. Some home insurance policies include exclusions for water damage arising from the backing up of eavestroughs, so this maintenance is important. Be sure that all eavestrough drains run away from the foundation of the home as well.
• Heating System – No one wants to come home to a home without heat in the winter. Now is the time for a maintenance check of your furnace or other home heating system. If your furnace is over 20 years old, it is even more important to have the unit inspected annually for the sake of safety and continued operation.
• Fireplaces & Woodstoves – If you have a wood burning unit in your home, be sure to have the chimney inspected and cleaned regularly by a WETT-certified contractor. (www.wettinc.ca lets you search for a local contractor). During the significant power failure in Toronto in the winter of 2013, many homeowners found themselves turning to fireplaces that hadn’t been used or cleaned in years. This is extremely dangerous, as a buildup of residue in the chimney can cause a significant fire hazard. Regular cleaning and maintenance is key!
• Driveways, Walkways & Sidewalks – With the snows of winter comes everyone’s favourite chore – shoveling! Be certain you have the tools necessary to maintain your driveways, walks and any sidewalks you may be responsible for clearing. Slip & fall claims are far more common in the winter, so ensure that your property is properly cleared and salted when necessary.
• Prepare for Power & Service Failures – Recalling the power failures of the past few winters which left homes without power for several days, we have all learned it is best to be prepared in case this coming winter creates another power failure. Be sure that you have enough supplies to last at least 3 days. The Ontario Government has some resources available to help you plan for an emergency, including building a kit and keeping necessary supplies on hand. If your power does fail, pay close attention to your plumbing system. Once the temperature of a home begins to drop, the chance for freezing in pipes skyrockets with a potential for significant water damage when the pipes thaw and rupture. If you suspect your heat will be out for a while, drain your plumbing system completely including all appliances to prevent this freezing damage. Learn more about freezing pipes here.

• Storing Seasonal Vehicles – Your summer cars, motorcycles, ATVs and other recreational vehicles are just about due to be put away for the winter. Conducting the storage maintenance routine specific to your vehicle now can prevent damage during the winter and make bringing the vehicle back out in the spring much easier.