A winter storm can pose many dangers to your home. Bad weather, strong winds, heavy snow, and ice accumulation can damage your property. Take the necessary steps to prepare your home for a winter storm before the temperatures drop. Follow these simple tips to make sure your home weathers the storm safely and without any significant damage.
1. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters
Before a winter storm hits, inspect your roof and gutters for problems. The roofing protects your home and belongings, and the guttering is necessary to funnel rainwater and snowmelt away from your house. Look for loose or missing shingles and cracks or holes in your gutters. These areas can quickly become damaged during a winter storm, so make repairs before the storm hits.
2. Trim Trees and Shrubs to Prepare Your Home for a Winter Storm
Another way to prepare your home for a winter storm is to trim trees and shrubs around your property. Look for dead or dying branches and prune them. Trim shrubs that grow close to the siding. In intense windstorms, their branches can impact the house and damage the siding. Branches that overhang the house or driveway can break during a winter storm and fall onto your home or car, causing damage. You’ll better protect your home from harsh weather by pruning trees and shrubs before the storm hits.
3. Protect the Plumbing Pipes
One of the most common problems during a winter storm is frozen and burst pipes. To help prevent this from happening, protect your plumbing. Start by insulating all exposed pipes in your home with foam insulation. In frigid climates, install heat tape on the pipes to maintain a safe temperature. When temperatures drop, allow faucets in the house to drip; flowing water is less likely to freeze. Finally, know where your main water shut-off valve is in case you need to turn it off in an emergency.
4. Prepare Your Home for a Winter Storm: Stock Up on Supplies
Lastly, one of the best ways to prepare for a winter storm is to stock up on supplies for your family ahead of time. Don’t wait until a storm is predicted; create an emergency kit with food, water, flashlights, and necessary medications. Get your family to help. Gather survival supplies and include pet food and medications, too. It’s also a good idea to have extra blankets and wool clothing on hand in case you lose power and need to stay warm.
Preparing for a winter storm doesn’t have to be complicated or time-consuming. Follow these simple tips to prepare your home and family for colder weather.
Premier Inspection Services offers home inspections to buyers and sellers in Upstate New York. Contact us to request an appointment for our services.