Whether you see winter as a welcome respite from the heat, or a dreaded season of bitter cold and howling snow, there’s no avoiding one fact. It’s coming. Love it or hate it, winter presents some real challenges for your house, and if a severe storm hits, it’s essential you prepare. These simple home improvement tips will ensure that your home is ready to tackle the next winter storm head-on and come through safely on the other side.
Winterize Your Home
Fall is the time when most of your winter storm preparation should take place. Before the weather turns cold, spend a little time taking care of these home maintenance tasks:
- Make sure your home is well insulated, especially the attic. If there are exposed pipes, use insulating pipe sleeves to prevent them from freezing during severe cold.
- Put a layer of plastic over windows to add insulation and protect them from the elements.
- Check your roof to make sure it is undamaged and strong enough to handle the weight of heavy snow.
- Clear the leaves and debris out of your gutters, and make sure downspouts are flowing away from the foundation.
- Have your heating system serviced, and your chimney cleaned.
Check Your Supplies
Make sure you have snow shovels and a stockpile of rock salt (or another de-icer) to keep your drive and walkways clear. Check to see that you have sufficient fuel for your home heating system and generator, as well as firewood if your home has a fireplace.
It’s also a good idea to have a store of emergency supplies stashed away in case of an emergency. It should include warm blankets, non-perishable food items and enough of any medications you may need in case you’re stuck inside for several days.
Prepare for a Power Outage
Losing power is a real possibility any time a storm threatens, and it will be easier to handle when you prepare in advance. In addition to a standby generator (and plenty of fuel for it) take these precautions to get ready for losing power:
- Include battery-powered flashlights and radio in with your emergency supplies, along with plenty of extra batteries.
- Check the insulation on your water pipes. If you lose power, allow water to run a trickle so that the pipes don’t freeze while you’re without heat.
- Keep your phone, and other battery-powered devices charged at all times.
- If a storm is approaching and you expect to lose power, turn up the thermostat to heat your home thoroughly. Seal off any unused rooms, so you don’t waste heat.
Stay Safe and Warm
Keeping warm is essential during a snow emergency, especially if the power is out. Propane space heaters are a great option, but be sure to keep them on a level surface at all times, and never leave them unattended. Use caution when lighting a fire in your fireplace too, and check all your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to make sure they work and have fresh batteries. Never use your oven or range as a heating device.
Armed with DIY know-how and these simple home improvement tips, you’ll be able to get your home ready for any winter storm that may strike.
