Influenced by subarctic northern winds and milder southern currents, Saskatchewan experiences some of the widest temperature fluctuations in the country. Considering the shifting weather patterns, it’s not surprising that key exterior housing materials such as roofing and siding are continually compromised.
Familiarizing yourself with the most durable and weather-resistant exterior materials on the market and paying attention to important maintenance tasks helps guarantee your home’s integrity.
Roofing
In Saskatchewan’s wildly fluctuating climate, laminated fiberglass shingles are the best choice, says Cory Rodych, marketing manager of the Saskatchewan branch of Roofmart. “Fiberglass shingles are much stronger and longer lasting than asphalt shingles,” he says. “They are composed of a double layer construction and coated with a heavy-duty sealant that stands up to temperature swings, as well as snow and rainfall.”
Siding
While vinyl siding is still the most often used material on Saskatchewan homes, fiber cement board siding is quickly gaining in popularity, says Rodych. “During cold spells and extreme temperature fluctuations, vinyl siding expands and retracts, which can cause cracking, but fiber cement board siding is more rigid and durable and temperatures swings don’t affect it.”
Top Home Maintenance Tasks in Saskatchewan
- Eavestroughs and downspouts. Prevent roof leaks and damaging moisture buildup during rain and snow by ensuring that your roof’s drainage system is functioning well. At the beginning of every season, clear any accumulated debris from eavestroughs and downspouts.
Ventilation system. Adequate airflow is the key to a long-lasting roof, says Rodych. Check air vents, including whirlybirds, for accumulated snow and debris twice during the winter and once during all other seasons of the year.
Clearance. Protect your roof by maintaining clearance around the perimeter of the building. Trim back trees and large shrubs if branches are hanging over or onto the roof, as they could damage your home during a windstorm.
Storm windows. Well-adjusted storm windows provide a protective barrier against temperature fluctuations. Inspect the windows in the fall for any broken panes and make sure that the windows are tightly secured. Apply weather stripping to keep out drafts.
Storm doors. At least twice a year, check your storm doors. Ensure that the weather stripping and threshold fit well and that there are no drafts or light leaking through. Adjust the threshold with a screwdriver if necessary. Also make sure to keep the pathway to the door clear of ice and snow, as the door can be damaged if it opens to hit a buildup.
Keep these weatherproofing tips in mind, and you might not even notice the next time the thermometer dips and rises.
