Snow Castles

I was thinking today… how cool it would be to stay in a snow castle for a day. What do you think? With perhaps ice for windows? Looking up at the sky, the stars and just being in touch with nature.

Back to reality… While that sounds awesome, and I might just have an opportunity someday… I think it needs to stay where it is. What I mean by that is if your home is not a snow or ice castle, don’t let it get to that point. Freezing temps bring with it a whole host of issues. Frozen pipes, bursting pipes, snow falls, slippery walks and more.

Before it snows, it is a good idea to make sure your gutters are clear of debris. This way when the snow/ice melt, it won’t overflow the gutters which can back up into the home.

Some things to think about with your home, especially if you have it on the market. Make sure your walkways are free and clear of snow and ice. Check your roof for an overload of snow. If it is a heavy snowfall, be sure to knock down some of the snow. Snow can be heavy on a roof and can cause damage or failure of the roof in some cases. Make sure those pretty icicles are knocked down too. They can be hazardous and hurt someone if they fall.

You also want to consult your homeowners insurance company and inquire as to what is covered for snow, ice or sleet damage. You might be surprised by what your coverage actually covers. The National Real Estate Insurance Group has a great quick tips page if you want to read up on snow, ice and sleet concerns.

(Https://Reighard.com/not-covered-snow-ice-sleet/ )

We’ve all seen the social media goofs about buying up bread, milk, wine… right? But, for some, preparing for a storm isn’t that easy. You also need to think about snow shovels, ice melt, windshield scrapers and heating systems. Does your heating system require a fuel delivery? Check to make sure you have enough oil or propane if your system requires those sources. Or maybe you have a wood stove. Stock up on wood. Candles and flashlight batteries are a necessity too in case of power failure.

Never bring in small heaters without reading the warnings and understanding the safety issues. Some heaters cannot be run in a closed space. Some are hazards especially for small children and pets.

Speaking of pets, let’s not forget our furry friends. Please don’t leave your pets outside. They need warmth and comfort too. They make pet friendly ice melt so it doesn’t hurt your pets paws.

But, when all is said and done… enjoy your snowfall! Snowpeople and hot cocoa are what its all about!