As residents in southern Ontario face scorching summer temperatures, safeguarding your home and keeping it cool are top priorities. Extreme heat can damage your property and drive-up cooling costs, but proactive steps can help.

Here are ways to protect your home from heat-related issues and practical tips to keep it cooler during the summer months.

Special thanks to one of our insurance company partners, Chubb Insurance, for the article inspiration and insights.

Protect Your Home from Heat-Related Damage

High temperatures can take a toll on a property’s structure and systems, including your home. Here’s are some common issues caused by extreme heat and things you can do to repair or be proactive to minimize damage:

• Roof Damage: Prolonged heat can degrade roofing materials, causing cracks, leaks, or warped shingles
  • What to Do: Inspect your roof for damaged tiles or shingles. Replace any that are cracked, missing, or worn to prevent leaks and further deterioration.
• Water Leaks: Hot weather can cause metal pipes to expand and crack, leading to potential water damage
  • Have regular plumbing inspections and consider installing a water leak-detection system with an automatic shut-off device for added protection. Some insurance companies even offer a discount for installing select detection devices.
• Foundation Issues: Extreme heat can dry out soil around your home, causing it to contract and potentially shift your foundation
  • Check the soil around your foundation for signs of drying or separation. If the soil is pulling away, it’s likely too dry. Work with a landscaper or gardener to create a hydration plan, such as watering the soil with sprinklers 2–3 times a week for 20–30 minutes.
• HVAC Overuse: Air conditioning systems can become overworked in extreme heat, leading to breakdowns or costly repairs
  • Maintain your HVAC system by regularly cleaning or replacing air filters and scheduling annual professional maintenance to ensure optimal performance.
• Mould and Mildew: Heat and humidity create ideal conditions for mould and mildew growth, especially in poorly ventilated areas
  • Use air filters with a MERV 8 rating or higher to trap mould spores and other pollutants. If you suspect mould, contact a remediation specialist for an inspection and professional treatment.

How to Keep Your Home Cooler

In addition to protecting your home from potential damage, you can take steps to keep it cooler and more comfortable during Ontario’s hot summer months (generally mid-June through mid-September). Here are some strategies to keep the heat down:

• Insulate and Seal: Proper insulation in walls, ceilings, and floors helps block heat from entering your home. Ensure your attic is well-ventilated to prevent heat buildup, and check that windows and doors are properly sealed to avoid air leaks.
• Block Sunlight: Close curtains, blinds, or shades during peak heat hours (typically between 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.) to reduce indoor heat gain. For added protection, consider installing reflective window film to deflect sunlight away from your home.
• Choose Reflective Roofing: When replacing or building a roof, opt for light-coloured or reflective roofing materials. These reflect sunlight, reducing heat absorption and keeping your home cooler.
• Seal Your Roof: Apply UV-resistant coatings and vapour barriers to your roof to protect against expansion, warping, and cracked shingles caused by intense heat. This also helps maintain caulk and prevents leaks.

More Tips for Staying Cool at Home

• Use Fans Strategically: Ceiling or portable fans can help circulate air and reduce reliance on air conditioning.
• Upgrade to Energy-Efficient Appliances: Energy-efficient HVAC systems and appliances generate less heat and lower energy bills.
• Plant Trees for Shade: Strategically placed trees or shrubs around your home can provide natural shade, reducing indoor temperatures.

By taking these proactive measures, Ontario homeowners can help protect their homes from heat-related damage and maintain a cooler, more comfortable living space. Regular maintenance and small upgrades can go a long way in ensuring your home is prepared for the ongoing summer heat.

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Staebler Insurance is a general insurance broker specializing in car insurance, home insurance, small business insurance, and commercial insurance. Staebler Insurance Brokers proudly serve Kitchener, Waterloo, Cambridge, Guelph, Stratford, Listowel, Fergus, Elora, Wellington County, Perth County, Waterloo Region, the Greater Toronto Area, Golden Horseshoe, Niagara Region, and all over beautiful Ontario, Canada. Get a Quote to get started today.