The recent heavy snowfall has left homes across the region covered in thick layers of snow, with ice clogging eaves and gutters. Many homeowners have noticed water seeping into their homes, raising concerns about leaks. At Tricity Windows and Doors, we've received multiple calls from homeowners worried that their windows are leaking. However, in most cases, the issue is not the windows but inadequate insulation and poor roof drainage, which prevent melting snow from properly escaping.
Why Is Water Getting Into Your Home?
As snow accumulates on your roof and temperatures fluctuate, ice dams can form along the roof edges and in the eavestroughs, blocking proper drainage. When melting snow has nowhere to go, it backs up under shingles and seeps into the home, often appearing around windows and ceilings. While it may look like a window leak, the real culprit is often a lack of proper attic insulation and ventilation, allowing heat to escape and unevenly melt the snow.
Preventing Water Damage
To protect your home from leaks and water damage, consider the following steps:
Improve Insulation and Ventilation – Proper attic insulation and ventilation reduce heat loss, minimizing ice dams and water buildup.
Keep Window Wells Clear – Remove snow from window wells to prevent melting snow from pooling and leaking into the basement.
Clear Snow Around Windows – Shovel snow away from windows to stop water from seeping inside as it melts.
Remove Excess Snow from the Roof – If safe, use a roof rake to clear accumulated snow and prevent ice dams from forming.
Monitor Indoor Moisture – Moisture or condensation inside may signal insulation or ventilation issues that need attention.
Important Winter Safety Reminder
Ontario has seen significant snowfall, so we remind homeowners to keep snow and ice from accumulating on gas meters and external exhaust outlets for furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, and dryers. Keeping these areas clear ensures your safety and helps appliances function properly. A gas meter covered in snow or ice can disrupt gas flow, potentially affecting your home’s heating.
Here are some key safety tips:
Use a brush or broom to remove snow—never sharp tools.
Avoid shoveling, plowing, or blowing snow against meters or vent pipes.
Be cautious not to hit your gas meter with a snow blower.
Never kick your gas meter or vent pipe to remove ice or snow.
Clear icicles or dripping water to prevent refreezing hazards.
Windows Are Not the Issue
If you’re noticing water leaks, it’s likely due to ice dams and inadequate insulation rather than window failure. Our energy-efficient windows are built to provide superior sealing, but if water has no proper drainage path, it can seep into various areas of your home.
If you have concerns about your windows' efficiency or are considering replacing old, drafty windows with high-quality, energy-efficient ones, Tricity Windows and Doors is here to help. Our experts can assess your current windows and provide recommendations to improve your home's comfort and energy savings. Contact us today for a consultation and ensure your home stays warm and protected this winter! We can send a sales representative to inspect your home and provide recommendations on any necessary replacements. Contact us today at (519) 721 2924 or info@tricitywindowsanddoors.com for a consultation and protect your home this winter!
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