Protecting Your Home from Cold Temperatures

The cold can do a number on your home. Keep it protected and enjoy winter at the same time!

Snow and cold weather can really take it out on your home. Sometimes it’s easy to forget the outside of your home needs attention, too! If you live in a rural area this is important because there may not be resources set up to sweep or clear out your area.

Once snow hardens it’s quite difficult to remove, so doing it as soon as it falls is your best bet. Doing prep work to help the exterior of your home will make for an enjoyable, relaxing winter.

• To start, clean out your gutters. Leaves and other debris can make an area for pooling water. They can also freeze and crack your gutters.
• Place doormats outside of your doors or at the bottom of stairways. Use mats with industrial tops, such as rubber or thick straw.
• Turn off outside water sources. There are also covers made for spouts which can be helpful, too. Disconnect hoses, be sure they are completely empty of water and store them indoors.
• Be sure to pour out water in bird baths or any pooling water. Water can freeze and break feeders or make walkways unsafe.
• If you’re worried about slipping on stairs or leaving your home you may want use rock salt or sand on your walkway. This can save you from having to shovel your driveway as well.
• In the winter it can get dark as early as 4 p.m., so add outdoor lighting to help light the way and prevent falls. This can also help with seeing slippery spots as you approach your home.
• Once a snow falls - clear off your dryer vent as it can cause a fire if blocked while your dryer is running.
• Check your siding for cracks as well as windows. Seal these up to help keep your home warm and energy efficient.
• If snow falls and covers your driveway or walkway, try shoveling the snow. Only shovel fresh snow and pay attention to how you feel. Do not shovel if you feel short of breath or dizzy. It’s also not wise for the elderly or someone who is sick to do this as it is a demanding cardio workout.
• Lastly, consult a professional about clearing the roof. You may only need to do this if the roof is damaged or if the snow falls for many days without melting.

Reference: https://www.thespruce.com/how-to-protect-your-home-from-freezing-temperatures-1388721