How to “winterize” your house and car

Winter is coming, bringing with it many precious moments with family, the holiday season, hot chocolate, and much more. Unfortunately, winter also brings frigid weather and heavy snowfall—which, when it happens unexpectedly (as it usually does in Canada), can be bad news for our homes and vehicles. How do we prepare for the winter months? There are a few things you can do to ensure you're well-prepared for the winter months, especially when it comes to freezing rain, high winds, and heavy snowfall. Here are some helpful tips.

For your car –

Our cars tend to be the most affected during the winter months, especially if we're not prepared. Here are some tips to ensure your car is up to the task when the cold weather hits.

Replace your tires

The best time of year to replace your tires is when the average temperature is below 7°C, which is around mid-November. Depending on your insurance company, you may be eligible for a car insurance discount if you replace your winter tires at their recommended time. However, this date varies from one insurance provider to another, so check the wording of your policy or contact your broker.

In Canada, snow tires offer many advantages over all-season tires. They last longer and provide better traction on snowy roads.

Check your battery

Your battery may not function properly due to the cold. The drop in temperature can significantly slow down the chemical reactions necessary to generate energy. Always check your battery to see if it needs replacing or if there is any corrosion that needs cleaning.

Windshield wiper fluid and wiper blades

Windshield wiper blades may require some maintenance during the winter months if they freeze or are old. Winter-specific blades are available at auto parts stores. You may also want to replace your windshield wiper fluid with one that has a lower freezing point.

Tire pressure

Especially in cold climates, tire pressure drops. Be sure to check your tire pressure once a week as soon as the weather turns cold to ensure you have safe traction.

Emergency kit

Keeping an emergency kit in your trunk is a good backup plan if things go wrong and you're stuck waiting for help for several hours. Include jumper cables, flares, blankets, an ice scraper, water, a flashlight, a shovel, and a first-aid kit.

For your home –

It doesn't take much time to check your home and winterize it before the cold weather sets in. It can also save you a lot of money in the long run and prevent your insurance premiums from increasing if you have to make an unexpected claim. Here are a few tips.

Inspect all windows and doors

Inspecting all doors and windows is a good way to begin winterizing your home. Any cracks or holes should be sealed immediately. Cover your basement windows with screens to maximize insulation and consider installing storm windows during this time.

Check your roof

Your roof may have to bear a lot of weight in the coming months, so it's a good idea to make sure it's up to the task. Prevent ice buildup during the winter months to ensure your home's insulation is as good as possible. Inspect your flashing, clean your gutters, and replace any old or worn shingles. You can even hire a professional to do it for you.

Have your furnace inspected by a professional

Have a professional clean your furnace ducts, removing all flammable materials surrounding the area. Change the filter every 30 days.

Maintain your pipes

Frozen and burst pipes can wreak havoc in a home. You might want to locate your water line in case you need to shut it off. Be sure to drain your garden hoses and turn off the water shut-off valve on your air conditioner. If you're leaving your house unoccupied for more than 24 hours, be sure to turn up your thermostat or even have a sitter check your pipes.

Have the foundations inspected

Check all entry points to your home to ensure they are sealed. Hibernating pests can find a cozy nest in your walls or attic! Seal off crawl spaces and conduct a thorough inspection. An infestation is not something you want to deal with in winter.

Conclusion

It doesn't take much to prepare your vehicle and home for winter. Just as you would prepare to leave the house by putting on a thick coat and mittens, your home and cars also need a little preparation! The cold can cause serious damage to your property if you leave it unattended, which can increase your insurance rates if you need to make a claim. Follow these steps and keep a watchful eye during the winter months to prevent any damage or problems.