Introduction
Ontario winters bring heavy snowfall, ice storms, and relentless freeze-thaw cycles, posing a significant threat to the integrity of your outdoor structures. Are your decks, gazebos, and screened rooms ready to withstand the weight of winter? Don’t wait for a structural collapse—learn how to protect your investments and ensure your family’s safety.
Ontario’s diverse climate, particularly its proximity to the Great Lakes, leads to substantial variations in snowfall and ice accumulation. Recent winters have seen a surge in structural failures, from agricultural buildings to residential porches, underscoring the widespread nature of this issue. The weight of snow can range from seven pounds per cubic foot for fresh snow to 30 pounds for compacted snow, with rain-soaked snow becoming even heavier.
At DeckStore.ca, we’ve seen firsthand the devastating impact of winter storms. One of our valued customers recently experienced the collapse of their screened sunroom due to excessive snow load, despite its original design being intended to withstand such conditions. The damage extended to their deck, railings, and even glass panels, leading to unexpected repair costs. This unfortunate event serves as a stark reminder that no structure is immune to winter’s force—proactive preparation is crucial.
This guide provides Ontario homeowners with the knowledge and practical steps needed to prepare their outdoor structures for the demanding winter season, establishing DeckStore.ca as a knowledgeable partner in this endeavor.
Understanding the Risks in Ontario’s Diverse Climates
Key Features:
- Heavy Snowfall and Varying Conditions
- Lake-Effect Snow: Areas near the Great Lakes experience significantly higher snowfall (AccuWeather).
- Ice Storms: Even a thin layer of ice can add hundreds of pounds of weight (Institute for Catastrophic Loss Reduction).
- Freeze-Thaw Cycles: Repeated freezing and melting can weaken materials like wood and concrete.
- Common Structural Weaknesses
- Aging Wood: Vulnerable to rot, decay, and insect infestation.
- Improper Flashing: Allows water to seep into structures, leading to hidden damage.
- Poor Drainage: Can lead to standing water and ice dams, causing significant problems.
- Ontario Building Code (OBC) and Limitations
- The OBC sets minimum snow load requirements, but these standards may not always be sufficient for extreme weather (Ontario.ca).
- Older homes may have lower snow load requirements.
Regional Snowfall Expectations
| Region | Typical Annual Snowfall (cm) | Primary Winter Weather Risks |
| Windsor-Essex | 100-150 | Heavy wet snow, occasional ice storms |
| Toronto Area | 120-180 | Moderate snowfalls, freeze-thaw cycles, occasional ice storms |
| Ottawa Valley | 200-250 | Heavy snowfalls, potential for significant ice storms |
| Sudbury/Northeastern Ontario | 250-350+ | Very heavy snowfalls, prolonged cold |
| Thunder Bay/Northwestern Ontario | 150-250 | Moderate to heavy snowfalls, extreme cold |
| Lake Huron/Georgian Bay Snowbelt | 300-500+ | Exceptionally heavy lake-effect snow |
| Niagara Peninsula | 150-250 | Heavy snowfalls, lake-effect influence, ice storms |
Consult a specialist at DeckStore.ca to assess your structure’s resilience to Ontario’s climate.
Reinforcing Your Structure: Ontario-Specific Solutions
Temporary Wooden Posts
- Add temporary support for extra protection.
- Use pressure-treated lumber.
- Place posts on stable footings.
- Securely fasten posts to the structure.
Best Materials and Techniques
- Reinforce beams and joists with additional lumber.
- Upgrade to larger dimension lumber or engineered wood.
- Add extra support beams or posts.
- Use stronger fasteners and metal connectors.
For additional guidance on outdoor structures, check out our work showcasing reinforced decks, pergolas, and pavilions built to withstand Ontario’s extreme weather conditions.
Consider structural modifications for added resilience and consult DeckStore.ca for expert advice.
Proactive Snow Management Strategies
Protecting Pergolas and Other Outdoor Features
Outdoor features such as pergolas and pavilions can also be affected by snow accumulation and ice buildup. Learn more about durable and winter-ready structures by visiting our pergola collection.
Implement proactive snow management strategies and seek professional help when needed.
What to Do If a Collapse Occurs
Immediate Steps
- Ensure safety and evacuate the area.
- Turn off utilities.
- Call 911 if needed.
Who to Contact
- Contact your insurance provider.
- Reach out to a professional contractor.
- Seek expert assessment for future prevention.
Be proactive in preparing your structures for Ontario winters to ensure safety and longevity.
