Winter in Ontario can be a handful.  From heavy snowfall to freezing temperatures, the season brings its share of challenges. As homeowners, you’re probably already preparing for the usual winter tasks—like adding extra insulation and tackling fall foundation repairs.  But there’s one problem that often sneaks up on many: ice dams.  Knowing How to Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof in Canada is crucial to protecting your home during the colder months. While the idea of frozen water building up on your roof might seem harmless at first, if left unchecked, it can lead to some serious issues. Ice dams form when heat from your home melts the snow on your roof. The meltwater runs down the roof and refreezes at the edge, creating a barrier of ice.  This prevents further melting water from draining off, causing it to pool under the shingles. Over time, this trapped water can seep into your roof, walls, and insulation, leading to costly repairs.  With the holidays around the corner, the last thing you want is to deal with roof damage or a sudden repair bill. Thankfully, ice dams are preventable.  By taking a few proactive steps now, you can protect your roof from these seasonal nuisances.  Our skilled handymen and professional snow removal services in Ontario are ready to assist you with ice dam prevention, ensuring your home stays safe and dry throughout the winter months What Causes Ice Dams?  Ice dams are a common yet frustrating problem that homeowners in Ontario face during the colder months.  While the concept of ice forming on your roof may seem straightforward, there’s actually a complex scientific process at play that can lead to significant damage if not addressed.  Let’s break down the causes of ice dams and explore how they form, why they’re harmful, and what steps you can take to prevent them effectively. Winter in Ontario can be a handful. Understanding How to Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof In Canada is essential for protecting your home. The key to understanding the causes of ice dams lies in the warm air circulating in your attic. During winter, the heat inside your home rises naturally and can escape into the attic if the insulation isn’t up to par.  This escaped warm air heats the underside of the roof, causing the snow above to melt unevenly. As the melted snow flows downward, it doesn’t disappear. Instead, it travels to the colder edges of the roof, also known as the eaves, where temperatures are significantly lower.  At these colder points, the water refreezes, starting the formation of an ice dam. Over time, this ice builds up and creates a barrier that traps additional water, preventing it from flowing off the roof.  This trapped water can then seep under shingles and into the home, leading to issues such as roof leaks, damaged insulation, and mold growth. (Read more on Why Is It Important To Remove Snow?) The cycle of freezing and refreezing is one of the most destructive aspects of ice dam formation.  It works as follows: This process repeats throughout the winter, exacerbating the problem with every temperature fluctuation. The result is often widespread damage that requires costly repairs. To learn How to Prevent Ice Dams on Your Roof in Canada, addressing attic insulation and ventilation issues is essential, reducing the likelihood of costly repairs caused by ice dams. Your roof’s design can also influence how and why ice dams form.  Specifically, the pitch of your roof (its slope) and the length of its overhangs play critical roles: Flat or low-pitched roofs don’t shed snow as effectively as steeply sloped roofs. This allows snow to accumulate for longer periods, making it more susceptible to melting and refreezing. Long overhangs can trap water at the roof’s edge, amplifying the freezing process. The unheated space under these overhangs provides the perfect environment for ice dams to develop and grow. Understanding the causes of ice dams isn’t just about preventing inconvenience—it’s about protecting your home and finances.  Ice dams can lead to: How to Prevent Ice Dams In Canada: 5 Effective Tips Here are five (5) effective strategies to stop ice dams in their tracks and keep your roof safe throughout the winter. Proper Insulation And Ventilation: Keep Your Attic Cold One of the leading causes of ice dams is inconsistent roof temperatures caused by warm air escaping from your home into the attic.  By focusing on proper attic insulation and ventilation, you can maintain a consistent and cold roof temperature, preventing snow from melting prematurely. High-quality attic insulation creates a thermal barrier, preventing heat from escaping into the attic. Insulation materials, such as fiberglass or spray foam, are particularly effective. Roof vents allow cold air to circulate through the attic, keeping it the same temperature as the outdoors. Ridge vents and soffit vents are especially useful for maintaining proper airflow. Pro Tip: Combine insulation with ventilation for maximum effectiveness. Poorly ventilated attics can cause moisture buildup, leading to mold growth and even structural damage. 2. Clear Gutters Regularly: Ensure Proper Water Flow Your gutters and downspouts play a crucial role in directing water away from your roof. When they’re clogged with debris, water has nowhere to go, increasing the likelihood of ice dams forming. Debris like leaves and twigs trap water, which can freeze and create an icy barrier. This not only contributes to ice dam formation but can also lead to sagging gutters and water overflow. Clean your gutters before winter and check them after heavy snowfall to ensure water can flow freely. Use gutter guards to reduce the frequency of cleaning. Pro Tip: Don’t overlook the importance of downspouts. Ensure they are clear and angled away from your foundation to prevent water damage. 3. Install Ice And Water Shield Underlayment Ice and water shield underlayment is a protective layer installed beneath your roof shingles. This material creates a watertight barrier, preventing water from seeping into your home even if ice dams form. How It Works: The…
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High energy bills, frozen pipes, cold floors, and uneven temperatures in different rooms—do these sound familiar?  These are clear warning signs that your home may need more insulation. While the obvious downside is skyrocketing heating costs, the hidden risks can be just as alarming.  Drafty spaces, mold growth, pest infestations, and even attic or roof leaks can make your home not only uncomfortable but also unhealthy during Ontario’s harsh winters. Winter in Ontario brings freezing temperatures, often plunging well below zero.  This season also coincides with cherished holidays like Christmas and New Year’s, when families gather, and homes are bustling with activity.  Imagine your guests shivering through festivities because your home struggles to retain heat. It’s an unsettling thought, but one that underscores the urgency of addressing insulation issues now rather than later. Insufficient insulation doesn’t just affect comfort; it impacts the structural health of your home. Heat escaping through poorly insulated walls or attics can lead to condensation, which invites mold.  Cold floors can signal inadequate underfloor insulation, while frozen pipes hint at vulnerabilities that could lead to costly repairs. Why Additional Insulation Is Critical For Ontario Winters: If these issues sound familiar, you’re not alone. Many Ontario homeowners face similar challenges. The good news?  Solutions exist and the home insulation experts at Custodia can help. Let’s dive into how you can recognize the signs, understand their implications, and address them effectively for a warmer, cozier winter. Here Are 10 Warning Signs Your Home Needs More Insulation in Ontario, Canada 1. Drafts And Cold Spots Drafts and cold spots are clear signs of heat escaping your home.  Poorly insulated areas like windows, doors, and attics often allow cold air to seep in, making it harder to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.  Feeling a noticeable chill when you walk through certain parts of your home is a key indicator of insulation gaps. Drafts often stem from gaps in seals or deteriorated weather stripping, especially in older homes.  A professional energy audit can help identify problem areas. Sealing these gaps and adding insulation can significantly improve indoor comfort and reduce energy costs. (Click here to Read on What Is The Average Price Of Installing A New Door In Ontario?) 2. Skyrocketing Heating Bills Heating bills that are higher than average could mean your insulation isn’t doing its job. When your home loses heat through the roof, walls, or floors, your heating system works harder to maintain the desired temperature.  Over time, this leads to increased energy consumption and inflated bills. Tracking your energy usage over time is a practical way to assess whether poor insulation is to blame.  Focus on upgrading attic and wall insulation, as these are the most common sources of heat loss. Doing so can lead to substantial savings and improve your home’s overall energy efficiency. 3. Uneven Room Temperatures Do some rooms in your home feel warm and cozy while others stay cold no matter what?  Uneven heating often points to inadequate insulation in specific areas, such as basements, rooms over garages, or older additions. Adding insulation to these spaces ensures even heat distribution throughout the home, reducing strain on your heating system. This upgrade not only improves comfort but also helps balance your energy usage, cutting costs in the long run. 4. Ice Dams and Roof Issues Ice dams form when warm air escapes through the attic, melting snow on the roof. The melted snow refreezes at the edges, causing a buildup that can damage shingles, gutters, and even the roof’s structure.  Look for icicles hanging from your roof or water stains on ceilings—these are signs your attic insulation needs attention. Improving attic insulation and ensuring proper ventilation are effective ways to prevent ice dams. These steps also protect your roof and reduce the risk of costly repairs during Ontario’s harsh winters. 5. Relying on Space Heaters If you find yourself using space heaters frequently, it’s a sign your home isn’t retaining heat effectively.  While space heaters can provide temporary warmth, they are inefficient and can pose safety risks if overused. Instead of relying on space heaters, focus on addressing the root cause: inadequate insulation.  Upgrading insulation in walls, floors, and ceilings can provide consistent warmth throughout your home, making space heaters unnecessary. 6. Cold Walls And Floors Touch your walls or floors during winter. If they feel cold, it’s likely that your insulation is insufficient or has degraded over time.  Older homes often have outdated insulation materials that no longer provide adequate thermal resistance. Modern solutions, such as spray foam or blown-in cellulose insulation, offer better thermal protection and last longer. Addressing cold walls and floors not only improves comfort but also reduces noise and energy costs. 7. Window Condensation Condensation on windows occurs when warm air meets cold glass.  This is often a sign of poor insulation and can lead to moisture problems like mold growth and rotting window frames. Enhancing window insulation and ensuring proper ventilation can prevent condensation. These improvements also help maintain healthy indoor air quality and protect your home from moisture-related damage. (Read more on What Are The Steps Of Windows Installation In Ontario?) 8. Dust And Allergens If your home seems dustier than usual or you notice more allergens indoors, your insulation might not be sealing out outdoor pollutants effectively. Poor insulation can let in dust, pollen, and other irritants, reducing air quality and increasing cleaning needs. Air-sealing problem areas and upgrading insulation can reduce these issues, improving indoor air quality and making your home a healthier place to live. 9. Dry Indoor Air Does the air in your home feel uncomfortably dry during winter?  Improper insulation can disrupt indoor humidity levels, leading to dry skin, irritated eyes, and respiratory discomfort.  While a humidifier can provide temporary relief, better insulation is the long-term solution to retaining balanced humidity levels. 10. Aging Insulation If your home hasn’t had an insulation upgrade in decades, the materials may no longer be effective. Over time, insulation settles or deteriorates, reducing its ability…
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The foundation is the backbone of your home, ensuring its longevity and stability.  Yet, many homeowners overlook its importance, assuming it will last indefinitely without care.  While foundations are designed for durability, they are not immune to wear and tear. Seasonal changes, especially in Ontario, Canada, significantly impact the soil conditions around your foundation.  These changes, over time, can lead to serious problems if left unattended. Consider it—common activities like excessive water runoff, soggy soil pooling around your home, deep-rooted weeds, and nearby trees can damage your foundation.  To avoid these issues, make sure you address Essential Fall Foundation Repairs Before Winter. Add to that soil erosion from heavy rains or digging too close to your property, and you have a recipe for foundation trouble. Though these issues might not seem urgent, they are. Acting quickly can save you from costly repairs and structural risks. Ontario’s unique climate plays a major role in foundation health. Fall, in particular, presents challenges as fluctuating temperatures, rain, and early frosts cause soil to expand and contract.  This movement stresses your foundation, leading to cracks, leaks, and uneven settling. If not addressed before winter, these problems worsen, leaving your home vulnerable to snow and ice damage. Thankfully, Custodia’s foundation repair experts in Ontario can help.  From conducting detailed inspections to repairing common issues like foundation cracks or poor drainage, we’re here to protect your home.  9 Common Foundation Issues to Address in The Fall in Ontario, Canada Let’s explore the most common foundation problems homeowners in Ontario face during the fall and why addressing them early is crucial. Cracks in The Foundation Cracks are one of the most noticeable signs of foundation problems. These cracks can develop due to various factors, including soil movement, temperature changes, and poor drainage.  Ontario’s freeze-thaw cycle is particularly harsh, and during the fall, the temperature shifts can cause concrete to contract and expand, leading to cracks.  Over time, even small cracks allow water to seep into the foundation, which can cause mold growth and further damage. Early identification and sealing of cracks through Essential Fall Foundation Repairs Before Winter can prevent long-term issues and help avoid expensive repairs down the road. 2. Foundation Cracks Cracks often form because of fluctuating soil conditions. In Ontario, freeze-thaw cycles are particularly damaging to foundations.  As the ground freezes and thaws, the soil beneath the foundation expands and contracts, putting pressure on the structure. This pressure can cause concrete to crack, creating openings for water to enter.  If left untreated, these cracks can compromise the integrity of your foundation, leading to more severe structural issues.  Repairing cracks early is key to avoiding further deterioration. Water Damage And Leaks Water is one of the most common causes of foundation damage. In the fall, Ontario experiences frequent rainfall, which can saturate the soil around your home.  When water pools near the foundation, it increases hydrostatic pressure on the concrete, leading to cracks and leaks.  If water enters the foundation, it can cause serious damage to your home’s structure, leading to costly repairs and potential health risks from mold growth.  Properly sealing cracks and installing a waterproofing system around your foundation can help prevent this issue. 4. How Water Can Weaken Your Foundation Water can weaken your foundation in several ways. It erodes the soil beneath the concrete, causing uneven settling and making the foundation more susceptible to shifting.  When the soil around your foundation becomes saturated, it creates additional pressure on the concrete, which can cause cracks or even complete foundation failure.  Moreover, standing water can freeze during the winter months, causing it to expand and further crack the foundation. Proper drainage and sealing are essential to preventing this issue from worsening. (Click here to read more on Is A Landlord Responsible For Yard Maintenance In Ontario?) Shifting And Settling Foundations Shifting or settling foundations occur when the soil underneath your home shifts, causing the foundation to move. This issue often results from changes in moisture levels, such as those caused by Ontario’s heavy fall rains.  As the soil becomes saturated with water, it can compress or expand, affecting the foundation’s stability. To prevent further damage, Essential Fall Foundation Repairs Before Winter are crucial. Settling foundations can result in uneven floors, doors that no longer close properly, or cracks in the walls. If not addressed, this shifting can lead to significant structural damage over time. Soil Movement And Weather Changes Soil movement plays a critical role in foundation stability. In Ontario, the soil beneath homes is subject to constant changes due to weather conditions, particularly in the fall.  During wet seasons, such as the fall, the soil expands as it absorbs moisture, creating pressure on the foundation.  Conversely, during dry periods, the soil contracts, which can leave gaps beneath the foundation.  These cycles of expansion and contraction weaken the foundation over time and can lead to cracks, shifting, or settling if not monitored and managed. 7. Moisture-Related Foundation Damage Moisture-related damage to foundations is a serious concern, especially in fall when the ground is wetter due to increased rainfall.  Excess moisture in the soil around your home can saturate the foundation walls, leading to cracks, water infiltration, and potential mold issues.  If moisture seeps into the foundation, it can also cause the concrete to weaken over time.  In Ontario, the combination of moisture and the freeze-thaw cycle makes foundation maintenance even more crucial, as water that infiltrates the cracks during fall can freeze in winter, worsening the damage. Poor Drainage Systems Around The Property Poor drainage is another major contributor to foundation damage. If your gutters, downspouts, or grading are not properly maintained, water can pool around your foundation.  Essential Fall Foundation Repairs Before Winter are crucial, as fall rains exacerbate this problem. Water that isn’t directed away from the house accumulates near the foundation, increasing hydrostatic pressure and leading to leaks and cracks. Maintaining a clear drainage system and ensuring proper grading around your home’s perimeter can significantly reduce the risk of water-related…
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January is an important month for Elderable Members, as it marks the first month of a new year. Your stimulus for this January home maintenance is; Refresh, Restart, Rethink. We all go over what happened last year and commit to do it better this coming year. Estimated time for this maintenance: 3 hours This months visit covers: This January Home Maintenance checklist is for education and entertainment only, if you need assistance, please contact service@elderable.com.

February can be a dark and dingy month for many people. Winter is in and it’s cold in most areas north of Florida!  A little home maintenance can make February a bright month in you home. Estimated time for this visit: 3 hours This months visit covers: This February Home Maintenance Checklist was developed for education and entertainment only. If you need assistance, please contact service@gocustodia.com Also check Recommended January Home Maintenance.

Taking the seniors garbage and recycling to the curb is a big job for many of our customers so you may understand how happy I was when my friend John showed me this service.   Eligible seniors garbage can have the city come to their home, come up to the house and take their garbage out for them and put the pails back after.  This is a free service for those who need it.  All you need to do is to fill out the application at this link >>> CLICK HERE TO GET A FREE QUOTE<<<.   Not everyone will qualify, but if you’re a senior managing your home, you have a great chance of getting this support. Best of luck! Photo and application from the City of Toronto.