How to maintain your property during major snowstorms in Quebec?

Winter in Quebec presents a variety of challenges, and the recent heavy snowfall reminds us of the crucial importance of properly maintaining our property to avoid any trouble and ensure the safety of everyone in the area. As a real estate professional, it’s vital for me to advise my customers on the maintenance of their homes; it’s an essential part of my job. So here are a few practical tips to keep your property in tip-top condition against the onslaught of winter storms.

1. Clear driveways regularly to avoid snow accumulation

After a heavy snowfall, one of the first things to do is to clear snow from driveways, stairs and walkways. Regular maintenance helps prevent snow accumulation and ice formation, which reduces the risk of falls and accidents.

• Use an ergonomic shovel to reduce body fatigue.
• To prevent ice from forming on winter roads, we recommend sprinkling salt or an abrasive such as sand or gravel.
• If you have a large area to clear of snow, it may be worth hiring a snow removal service to help you maintain the outdoor space properly.

2. Take care to prevent snow from accumulating on your roof

• Too much snow on a roof can lead to water leaks, and in severe cases to structural collapse.
• Use an extendable snow rake to remove excess snow, especially around the edges.
• Make sure air openings and outlets are not blocked.
• For large piles of snow,” it’s advisable to use the services of a professional for safe removal.”

3. Avoid ice formation and freeze-up

Icicles form when snow melts on the roof due to interior heat, then water freezes as it reaches the edges, potentially causing major water damage.

• Make sure your attic is properly ventilated and insulated to minimize excessive heat.
• If necessary, place heating wires along the edges of the roof.
• Be sure to check and clean your gutters frequently to facilitate water drainage.

4. Protect outdoor structures

Balconies, terraces and carports are vulnerable to considerable damage from the weight of snow.

• Clear snow from surfaces on a regular basis to prevent excessive accumulation.
• Make sure buildings are structurally sound and reinforced before winter sets in.
• Make sure that snow does not accumulate along the walls of the house to avoid the risk of water infiltration.

5. Take care of outdoor equipment

Some outdoor installations require extra vigilance during the winter season.

• Make sure you regularly clean the air ducts of heating systems (such as heat pumps and air exchangers), as well as dryer outlets, to avoid any danger of carbon monoxide poisoning.
• Make sure you regularly monitor your drainage system to avoid water accumulation problems during snowmelt periods.
• Store your garden furniture and barbecue under a sturdy cover to protect them from the weather or potentially damaging clutter.

6. Prepare for storm emergencies

Winter storms can lead to power cuts or blocked roads.

• Make sure you have an emergency kit on hand containing a flashlight with spare batteries, as well as drinking water and non-perishable food.
• Make sure your generator is working properly, and use it safely.
• Keep in touch with your neighbors, especially if they are old or live alone, so that you can support each other in times of need.

In conclusion, we can say that…

Taking care of your property during the winter season requires constant vigilance; however, these preventive efforts are essential to avoid various problems and protect your valuable real estate investment.

As an experienced real estate professional, I always recommend that my customers adopt these good habits to ensure the safety and longevity of their home. If you need personalized advice or have any questions about the upkeep of your property, don’t hesitate to contact me!

Take full advantage of the warmth of winter and savor this moment of calm!