Your home is your castle, and you should be able to enjoy it no matter what the weather is like outside. But this isn’t always possible, especially when winter weather hits hard. Snow days can be a pain if you’re not prepared, but there are some things you can do to make them a little more bearable. Here are seven ways to prepare your home for a snow day.
1. Seal Drafts in Windows and Doors
Nothing is worse than a cold draft coming into your home on a snowy day. It can make the whole house feel cold and uncomfortable.
But you can prevent this by sealing up any drafts in your windows and doors. Something as simple as weather stripping or caulking can make a big difference. You might also want to invest in some window insulation film to help keep the heat in during snow days.
Remember, if you’re not sure how to do this, there are plenty of instructional videos and articles online that can help. If you still can’t figure it out, ask a neighbour or friend for help, or hire a professional.
2. Bring in Some Extra Firewood
Adding a little extra wood to your firewood pile before a big snowstorm can be a lifesaver. If you run out of wood, you’ll have to go out in the cold to get more, and no one wants to do that.
So make sure you have enough wood to last you through the storm, plus some extra just in case. And if you have a wood-burning stove, make sure it’s clean and in good working order before the storm hits.
3. Stock Up on Non-Perishable Foods
When a big snowstorm is on the way, it’s always a good idea to stock up on non-perishable foods. This way, you won’t have to go out in the cold to get food, and you’ll have plenty to eat if you’re stuck inside for a few days.
Some good non-perishable foods to keep on hand include canned soup, peanut butter, crackers, cereal, and canned fruits and vegetables. And don’t forget the snacks! Chips, pretzels, and other snacks will come in handy if you’re stuck inside with the kids on a snow day.
4. Cover Exterior Pipes
Frozen pipes are one of the most common problems during a snowstorm. To prevent this, make sure you cover all of your exterior pipes before the storm hits.
You can use foam pipe insulation or wraps to insulate your pipes and keep them from freezing. If you’re not sure how to do this, there are plenty of instructional videos online that can help. If you still can’t figure it out, hire a professional to help you.
5. Clean the Gutters and Drainage Pipes
If you want to prevent flooding and water damage during a snow day, it’s important to clean your gutters and drainage pipes early enough. Clogged gutters can cause water to back up and flood your roof, while clogged drainage pipes can cause water to pool around your foundation.
So before the snow starts to fall, make sure your gutters and drainage pipes are clean and clear. If getting on a ladder to clean them is not something you’re comfortable with, contact an HVAC professional to do it for you.
6. Invest in a Generator
If you live in an area that is prone to power outages during snowstorms, it’s a good idea to invest in a generator. This way, you’ll still have power even if the electricity goes out.
A generator can be a lifesaver during a power outage, so it’s worth the investment. Just make sure you know how to use it properly and that it’s properly maintained.
7. Get a Heated Driveway
If you live in an area where it snows frequently, it’s a good idea to invest in a heated driveway. It will ensure that your car won’t over freeze and you won’t have to shovel and clear your driveway with a shovel. It will help prevent any ice buildup on your driveway and on your car.
Conclusion
These are just a few of the ways you can prepare your home for a snow day. By taking these steps, you can prevent any problems and make sure you’re prepared for anything. So, don’t wait until the last minute to prepare; get started today!
