Ontario winters are beautiful — but they can be tough on your home.
Whether you're a first-time buyer, seasoned homeowner, investor, or planning to sell, preparing your property for winter is essential for protecting your investment, preventing costly repairs, and keeping your home comfortable through the coldest months.

Here are the must-do winter home maintenance tasks every homeowner across the GTA, Halton, Hamilton, and Niagara regions should complete.

❄️ 1. Seal Drafts Around Windows & Doors

Small air leaks can significantly increase your heating bill.

✔ What to check:

• Window frames
  
  
• Sliding doors
  
  
• Front & back entryways
  
  
• Patio doors
  
  

✔ What to do:

• Replace worn weather stripping
  
  
• Use caulking around gaps
  
  
• Add thermal curtains for insulation
  
  

Energy loss is real — sealing drafts can improve efficiency and comfort instantly.

🔥 2. Service Your Furnace Before Temperatures Drop

Your furnace works hardest in winter — give it the attention it needs.

✔ Winter prep includes:

• Annual service by an HVAC technician
  
  
• Replacing furnace filters every 1–3 months
  
  
• Ensuring all vents are open and unobstructed
  
  

A well-maintained furnace ensures efficiency, safety, and proper heating circulation.

🧊 3. Protect Pipes From Freezing

Frozen pipes are one of the most expensive winter emergencies.

✔ Key tips:

• Insulate exposed basement and garage pipes
  
  
• Keep cabinet doors open during extreme cold
  
  
• Maintain indoor heat, even when away
  
  
• Let faucets drip slightly during deep freezes
  
  

Prevention is far cheaper than a burst pipe repair.

❄️ 4. Clean Gutters & Downspouts

Clogged gutters = ice dams, roof damage, and leaks.

✔ Do this before snow:

• Remove leaves and debris
  
  
• Ensure downspouts drain away from foundation
  
  
• Check for sagging or loose areas
  
  

Proper gutter flow protects your roof and prevents costly winter water issues.

🧼 5. Check Your Sump Pump System

Homes across Hamilton, Niagara, and parts of the GTA rely heavily on sump pumps.

✔ Winter checklist:

• Test the pump
  
  
• Ensure backup battery works
  
  
• Confirm drainage line isn’t frozen
  
  

A functioning sump pump = dry basement all winter.

🏡 6. Inspect Your Roof & Exterior

Even small exterior issues worsen in winter.

✔ Look for:

• Missing shingles
  
  
• Lifted flashing
  
  
• Cracked siding
  
  
• Gaps around vents or chimneys
  
  

Fixing these early protects against leaks and heat loss.

🌬️ 7. Protect Outdoor Spaces & Landscaping

Outdoor maintenance helps prevent winter damage.

✔ Before the snow:

• Store outdoor furniture
  
  
• Shut off exterior water lines
  
  
• Drain hoses
  
  
• Trim branches hanging over walkways
  
  

This reduces hazards and protects your home’s exterior.

🪟 8. Reverse Ceiling Fans for Warmth

Most don’t know this trick:

➡️ Switch your fans to clockwise in winter
➡️ This gently pushes warm air downward

It helps heat circulate better — and lowers utility bills.

🕯️ 9. Test Smoke & Carbon Monoxide Detectors

Winter = increased use of heating systems, fireplaces, and candles.

✔ Make sure detectors:

• Have fresh batteries
  
  
• Are installed on every level
  
  
• Are replaced every 7–10 years
  
  

Safety first, always.

🚪 10. Check Doors, Railings & Walkways for Safety

Winter brings slippery surfaces — protect yourself and visitors.

✔ Ensure:

• Handrails are secure
  
  
• Driveway cracks are sealed
  
  
• Mats are non-slip
  
  
• Salt or sand is easily accessible
  
  

A safe exterior prevents falls and liability issues.

✨ Final Thoughts

Winter home maintenance is essential for protecting your investment, staying safe, and ensuring your home runs efficiently during Ontario’s coldest months.

Whether you’re planning to stay, sell, or invest, staying proactive avoids costly seasonal surprises — and keeps your home in top shape year-round.

If you’d like a personalized winter home checklist for your property type or neighbourhood, our team at Ana Bastas Realty is always here to support you.

🏡 Ana Bastas Realty
Experience the AB Advantage™
Trusted Across the GTA, Hamilton, Halton & Niagara Since 2012