Key Takeaways
Proper winter maintenance is essential to protect your property and minimize risks throughout the colder months. Start by inspecting and repairing small cracks before freezing temperatures cause them to expand, and clean and seal surfaces to prevent moisture damage and corrosion. Ensuring proper drainage helps avoid pooling and ice buildup, while eco-friendly de-icers such as calcium magnesium acetate or sand protect both your surfaces and the environment. Regular snow removal prevents compaction and keeps your walkways safe, reducing the risk of slips and falls. Keeping paths clear not only safeguards your family and visitors but also helps prevent potential liability issues. Finally, review your home insurance policy to confirm it includes coverage for winter-related damage and accidents, ensuring complete peace of mind before the cold weather sets in.
British Columbia winters bring freezing temperatures, heavy rain, and ice that can wreak havoc on your property’s exterior surfaces. Without proper maintenance, water can seep into cracks and expand when frozen—damaging concrete, asphalt, and paving stones. Even worse, icy surfaces increase the risk of slips and falls for your family and visitors.
In this guide, we’ll show you how to protect your driveway and walkways from seasonal wear and tear, reduce liability risks, and avoid costly spring repairs.
For tailored protection, speak with a Park Insurance broker about ensuring your home policy covers winter-related damage and liability.
1. Why Winterizing Matters in British Columbia
BC’s freeze-thaw cycles can cause significant damage to paved surfaces. When moisture enters small cracks and freezes, it expands—widening gaps and weakening the structure over time. Combined with the risk of icy surfaces, this creates both safety and financial concerns for homeowners.
Winterizing helps you:
- Prevent Cracks and Erosion: Protect concrete and asphalt from freeze-related damage.
- Reduce Slip-and-Fall Risks: Keep walkways safe for family, guests, and delivery drivers.
- Avoid Costly Repairs: Prevent the need for resurfacing or repaving in spring.
- Maintain Curb Appeal: Preserve the appearance and value of your property.
2. Step-by-Step: How to Winterize Driveways and Walkways
Step 1: Inspect and Repair Early
Before the first frost, check for cracks, crumbling edges, or uneven surfaces. Use a concrete or asphalt crack filler to seal any gaps—preventing water from seeping in and freezing.
Step 2: Clean and Seal the Surface
Sweep away debris, pressure wash the surface, and apply a quality sealant. A water-repellent sealer helps block moisture absorption and provides a protective barrier against salt and chemicals.
Step 3: Manage Drainage
Ensure water flows away from your driveway and sidewalks. Clear gutters and downspouts, and consider adding gravel or French drains in areas prone to pooling.
Step 4: Choose the Right De-Icer
Avoid traditional rock salt, which can corrode concrete and harm plants. Instead, use calcium magnesium acetate or sand for traction—eco-friendly options that protect your surface and the environment.
Step 5: Keep Up with Snow Removal
Regularly shovel snow before it compacts into ice. Use ergonomic tools or a snow blower to minimize strain and keep surfaces clear.
3. Preventing Slips, Trips, and Falls
Safety is just as important as surface protection—especially during the unpredictable freeze-thaw cycles of a BC winter. Beyond preserving your driveway or walkway, prioritizing safety helps prevent injuries to family members, delivery drivers, or visitors who use your property daily. The combination of moisture, darkness, and freezing temperatures can make even well-maintained surfaces hazardous.
To minimize these risks and maintain peace of mind:
- Lay down non-slip mats near entrances.
- Install motion-sensor lighting for better visibility.
- Apply grit or sand to high-traffic areas during icy weather.
- Keep handrails and outdoor steps clear of snow and ice.
In BC, homeowners can be held liable if someone slips on an uncleared walkway. Maintaining safe access isn’t just good practice—it’s a core part of responsible property ownership.
4. Insurance Considerations for Winter Damage
Even with careful preparation, winter damage can still occur due to the unpredictable nature of BC’s winter weather. Prolonged freezing temperatures, heavy snowfall, and sudden thaws can all take a toll on your property despite your best efforts. Cracks can expand unexpectedly, melting snow may lead to water infiltration, and icy conditions can increase the risk of slips and falls. When these issues arise, having the right insurance coverage becomes essential to avoid out-of-pocket expenses and restore your property quickly.
Home insurance often covers:
- Liability claims for slips and falls.
- Damage caused by snow, ice, or freezing conditions.
- Repair costs for driveways and walkways damaged by covered perils.
However, coverage may be limited if maintenance is neglected—or if your home is left unoccupied for an extended period during the winter. Many policies include conditions requiring homeowners to maintain adequate heat or have someone check on the property regularly when away for more than a few days. Failing to do so could impact your eligibility for coverage if damage occurs while you’re absent.
A Park Insurance broker can help ensure your home insurance covers seasonal risks—so you’re protected no matter what the forecast brings.
Don’t let winter weather catch you off guard. Protect your driveway, walkways, and peace of mind this season.
Contact a Park Insurance broker today to review your coverage and ensure your home is ready for BC’s winter conditions.
