How to Protect Your House from a Winter Storm? – Practical Guide for Extreme Weather Conditions!
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An arctic blast has been causing subfreezing temperatures in the Southeast part of the U.S., and it’s been slowly reaching the Mid-Atlantic and Northeast. The record-breaking cold weather is expected to bring snow to eastern Texas, Oregon, Arkansas, Mississippi, Memphis, and Nashville, which hasn’t occurred in over 2 years!
During such unexpected harsh conditions, it’s important to stay one step ahead and be prepared for the possible damages. We’ll show you how to protect your house from a winter storm and stay safe during times of extreme weather conditions!
How to Protect Your House from a Winter Storm: Practical Guide
As of right now, almost 80% of the U.S. is experiencing subzero temperatures. This drastic weather change caught many people by surprise, very few of whom were prepared for the dangerously cold wind that is traveling all the way from the Canadian to the Mexican border. Here’s some advice on how you can prepare your home for the storm so you and your family can feel safe and sound!
Seal Up Your Drafts
If your doors and windows aren’t well sealed, you will have a hard time keeping your house warm. You can add weatherstripping, caulk or use a window insulator kit to trap the heat inside and keep the cold wind outside!
Check the Pipes
One of the first damages most people experience during a blizzard is frozen pipes. This can cause them to burst, and it’s something you don’t want to happen unless you’re willing to throw a couple of thousand dollars into fixing them. The easiest way to avoid this problem is by adjusting your thermostat to no lower than 65 degrees. It’s also good to let the faucets drip a little, so you can aid the water movement through the pipes.
Clean Your Drains
If your drains are clogged, there is a high chance for melted ice to leak into your basement. Make sure that you check all of them thoroughly and clean them if necessary to avoid unwanted damage.
Read also: How to Clean Your Kitchen Sink Drains? Here Are 8 Effective and Simple Tricks!
Inspect the Chimney
If you haven’t had your chimney checked by a professional lately, and you’re currently unable to do so, it’s best to avoid using the fireplace. If there is a blockage, you could be in danger of carbon monoxide poisoning. This is why it’s also good to have a carbon monoxide detector, which will signal you if there are any irregularities.
Remove Large Tree Branches
When there is a windstorm outside, any large hanging branches are a threat. They can easily break and fall on a person, a vehicle, or your house. If possible, remove them yourself or call a professional to do it for you.
Read also: How to Make a DIY Outdoor Faucet Cover: A Step-by-Step Guide