Your Calgary Garage Winterization Checklist

Calgary winters are unpredictable — deep freeze one week, chinook the next. That constant freeze-thaw cycle is tough on concrete, doors, and drainage. If your garage isn’t prepped, small issues can quickly turn into costly repairs.

Here’s a practical checklist to help you get your garage ready for winter and keep it protected until spring:

✅ Garage Winterization Checklist

Protect the Floor

• Sweep and wash the pad to remove dirt, salt, and oil.

• Fill cracks with concrete filler.

• Apply a penetrating sealer to protect against salt and moisture.

• Reseal every 2–3 years.

👉 Why: A sealed floor resists pitting and cracking from Calgary’s road salt and freeze-thaw cycles.

Service Doors and Hinges

• Oil hinges on the garage door and man door.

• Lubricate rollers, tracks, and springs with silicone spray.

• Tighten loose screws, bolts, and brackets.

• Test the garage door opener’s safety features.

👉 Why: Cold weather makes metal contract — lubrication keeps everything moving smoothly.

Clear the Apron

• Shovel the apron (the strip of concrete directly in front of your garage) after every snowfall.

• Keep snow piles away from garage walls.

• Apply sand or ice melt sparingly to avoid salt damage.

👉 Why: Prevents ice ridges from forming at the door, which are hard on tires and concrete.

Manage Drainage

• Clean out eavestroughs to allow snowmelt to flow freely.

• Install or extend downspouts to carry water at least 6 feet away from your garage.

• During chinooks, check that meltwater isn’t pooling at the pad or foundation.

👉 Why: Proper drainage prevents flooding and water seeping into your garage.

Monitor the Attic Space (Insulated/Drywalled Garages)

• Peek into the attic above your garage a few times each winter.

• Look for frost or condensation on the underside of the roof sheathing.

• If you notice buildup, improve ventilation to balance temperature and airflow.

  
  

👉 Why: Freeze-thaw in unventilated attic spaces can lead to frost damage and leaks.

Protect Stored Items

• Elevate items off the floor on shelving or pallets.

• Store seasonal gear in sealed plastic bins.

• Keep shovels, salt, and sand handy near the door.

👉 Why: Protects belongings from moisture and makes winter cleanups easier.

📝 Final Word

Winterizing your garage in Calgary isn’t about making it warm and cozy — it’s about preventing damage and managing moisture. By following this checklist, you’ll protect your garage, your belongings, and your concrete pad all season long.

Do it once now, and your garage will stay ready for whatever Calgary weather throws at it.