Albertans are in the roller-coaster month of March, when we’re all reminded that no matter how nice the weather is, it’s always bound to get a bit worse.
Forecasted for the Calgary and Edmonton regions are several days of above-zero temperatures, with Calgary reaching double digits this weekend. However, shortly after that the mercury will dip below freezing, with nighttime temperatures reaching below minus-10 in some areas.
This classic freeze/thaw cycle is something all Albertans are very familiar with, and it can be as hard on homes and properties as it is on people. Here are nine tips to keep your property prepped for when spring finally arrives for good.
- Clean your downspouts and eavestroughs — When it is safe to do so, have a look at your roof and gutters and ensure there are no blockages. Better yet, hire a professional to do it for you. Also ensure your downspouts are directed well away from your home.
- Make sure your roof is still in good repair — Don’t get up and tromp around on your shingles, as this is actually bad for them. You can perform a good visual inspection from a ladder, or employ a professional to do it for you. Signs your roof is damaged include curling, cracked, or missing shingles and shingle granules in your gutters. These look like tiny beads or large grains of sand. Remember: home insurance policies include the right to refuse a claim if roofs have not been kept in good shape.
- Watch for ice dams — Ice dams occur because of poor ventilation, poor insulation, or a combination of both. If your roof is losing a lot of heat, the layer of snow closest to it will melt, drain down slowly, then freeze again. If that “ice dam” gets bad enough, the melted water will have nowhere to go and back up into your house, dripping down into the roof, eaves, and down your walls.
- Install a backflow valve — Sewer systems are becoming increasingly stressed due to age and overuse, which can lead to municipal pipes overflowing and backing up into homes. A backflow valve will stop that water from coming in and protect your property.
- Check your basement floor drains — These need to be unobstructed and free of clogs. Should something like a hot water heater start leaking when you are not home, you are going to want that water to have somewhere to go.
- Check your street storm drains — Street storm drains can be easily clogged up with winter refuse and debris as people shovel their snow onto the street. Take a good look to make sure they seem clear. If not, call 311 to have the City of Calgary come by.
- Inspect your foundation — Look closely for cracks and seal any gaps with exterior sealant. Hiring a professional specializing in foundation repairs is a good idea if cracks seem out of control.
- Make sure valuables are off the floor of your basement — Move valuable items to higher levels in your home or, at the very least, ensure they are on shelves well above the floor.
- Prepare for flooding — If flooding is imminent and it’s safe to do so, shut off electricity to affected areas and use sandbags or flood shields to prevent water from entering your home.
Water damage a main cause of home insurance claims
In Canada, water damage is a leading cause of home insurance claims, accounting for approximately 50% of all home insurance claims in Canada totalling about $1.5 billion in damages. That number includes approximately $700 million in insured losses and $800 million in uninsured losses.
Water damage coverages include sewer backup coverage and overland flooding coverage. Both are optional, but highly recommended.
- Sewer backup provides coverage for unexpected water intrusion into your home through drains, pipes, gutters, downspouts, or septic tanks.
- Overland flood coverage is available as an optional add-on but should be considered mandatory for those in flood zones. It protects against water entering your home through doors, windows and foundations.
Trust Lane’s for all of your home insurance needs
Lane’s Insurance only works with the most reputable insurance companies serving the Alberta area providing the most affordable and comprehensive home insurance packages available. Remember, if you have any questions about your coverage and you are not getting a clear answer from your provider, feel free to give us a call to help provide answers. We can contrast and compare your policy with those we provide to find you the very best coverage at the lowest possible rates.
