Winter in Ontario brings snow-covered landscapes and cozy nights by the fire. But as temperatures rise and snow begins to melt, homeowners face a different kind of challenge—water damage. Whether it’s snow load on your roof, ice dams, or a rapidly thawing backyard, knowing how to protect your home can save you from costly repairs.
At Strong Roots Insurance Brokers in Stratford, we care about our community and want to help you prepare. Here’s your complete guide to safeguarding your home from winter water damage.
1. Snow Load & Snow Melt – What’s the Risk?
Heavy snow accumulation on your roof can put excessive weight on your home, leading to structural damage. When temperatures fluctuate, rapid snowmelt can overwhelm drainage systems, increasing the risk of leaks and flooding.
What to do: Regularly clear excess snow from your roof using a roof rake or hire a professional for steep or high roofs.
2. Ice Dams – The Silent Threat
Ice dams form when melting snow refreezes at the edges of your roof, blocking proper drainage and forcing water under your shingles. While icicles may look beautiful, they are often a sign that heat is escaping from your attic and melting the snow unevenly. Left unchecked, ice dams can lead to significant water damage inside your home.
Prevention tips:
- Keep your attic well-insulated to prevent heat loss that causes uneven melting.
- Ensure gutters and downspouts are clear of debris before winter starts.
- Use calcium chloride ice melt products (not rock salt) to safely break up ice.
- Online resources, such as your local municipal website or insurance provider, often have additional tips for winter roof maintenance and preventing ice dam formation.
3. Clearing Snow & Debris from Your Home
Blocked eavestroughs, sewer drains, and other drainage paths can lead to major water backup issues when snow begins to thaw.
Key areas to check:
- Eavestroughs & downspouts – Clear leaves, twigs, and ice buildup.
- Sewer grates & drains – Ensure they’re open to allow water to flow freely.
- Pathways & driveways – Direct melting snow away from your home’s foundation.
4. Sump Pumps & Backflow Valves – A Must-Have
A sump pump removes excess water from your basement, while a backflow valve prevents sewage from backing up into your home. Having both is essential for keeping your home dry and safe during winter thaws.
How to check if you have them:
- Look in your basement for a pit with a pump inside—this is your sump pump.
- Your backflow valve is typically located on your main sewer line, often near the basement floor or in a utility room. If unsure, a plumber can help you locate it.
Installation and Maintenance:
- Test your sump pump by pouring water into the pit—ensure it activates.
- Install a battery backup in case of power outages.
- If your home doesn’t have a backflow valve, we highly recommend having one installed to sewer backups.
What does a sump pump look like?
Backwater Valve Installation Video by City of Windsor Ontario Canada
Final Checklist for Homeowners
- Clear snow from your roof & gutters
- Check for ice dams & use safe melting techniques
- Unblock storm drains & eavestroughs
- Ensure sump pump is functional
- Check for a backflow valve and install one if needed
- Direct melting snow away from the foundation
By following these steps, you can prevent water damage and keep your home safe.
Three larger things to watch out for are:
Beyond snow, ice, and drainage, here are three other issues that can cause major water damage in your home:
- Cracks in Your Ground-Level Foundation: As the ground thaws, expanding water can seep into small cracks and widen them, leading to basement leaks and structural issues. Inspect your foundation for visible cracks and seal them before spring.
- Poor Yard Drainage: If your yard has low spots or slopes toward your house, melting snow can pool and seep into your foundation. Consider regrading your property or installing French drains to redirect water away from your home.
- Leaking Window Wells: Basement windows set too low or without proper drainage can allow water to build up and seep inside. Check your window wells for debris and install covers or gravel for better drainage.
We know that these last 3 are larger undertakings, however, if you notice problems in these areas it is best to remediate as soon as possible and before larger damage occurs.
At Strong Roots Insurance Brokers, we’re proud to be part of Ontario’s rural communities. We understand the unique challenges that come with homeownership in these areas, and we’re here to help. If you have questions about your home insurance coverage or want to ensure you’re protected against flooding, give us a call today.
Share this guide with a friend or print it out as your winter water checklist!