Common-sense Steps to Make Sure Your Home is Prepared for a Major Snowstorm

Well…it is winter in New England, after all! ❄️❄️☃️☃️

With attention building on the possibility of a significant snowstorm hitting Cape Cod and the Islands, you may want to take some common-sense steps to make sure your home is prepared. Our experts at The Davenport Building Company have a few ideas for you:

Is Your Heating System Ready?

The absolute last thing you need is to have problems with your heating system. Get it looked at by a professional for a quick tune-up to reduce the possibility of breakdowns when the demand for it will be highest during cold and snowy weather.

Quick improvements include replacing air filters if you have forced hot air. For oil and propane, check your fuel levels and refill BEFORE the storm. And it’s critical to make sure you clear the snow from exterior vents and exhaust pipes. If you have a standby generator, keep the exhaust away from the windows during operation.

What About the Exterior?

Before the snow and wind pick up, take a walk around your property and look for loose or missing shingles. Heavy snow can create leaks and ice dams. Also take a quick look at your downspouts to make sure they are clear of debris.

Don’t want half your lawn torn up by the plow or snowblower? Make sure you stake the driveway and the lawn along your street. This will help guide those doing the snow removal.

If you still have any outdoor furniture or patio items on the deck,  get them inside now.

Worried About Power Outages?

Big snowstorms often bring power outages, especially on Cape Cod. If you have a generator, test it ahead of time and keep it safely ventilated. And before using the fireplace and other backup heating sources, make sure chimneys and flues are clean and operational. Keep a good supply of batteries on hand for those flashlights as well!

Protect Pipes and Outdoor Systems

Frozen pipes can lead to significant damage and astronomical repair costs. Always disconnect garden hoses and shut off exterior water lines if possible. Insulate exposed pipes, especially in unheated spaces like garages, basements, and crawlspaces. If you have outdoor showers or irrigation systems, make sure they’re properly winterized well before the storm hits.

Don’t Worry, You’ll Make it Through the Storm

Remember – it’s only eight weeks to spring! So just take some easy, common-sense precautions and you’ll make it through the storm just fine (and don’t buy too much bread and milk: the storm is usually gone within 24 hours)!

And if you’re thinking about a home improvement project or renovation, check out our local experts at Davenport Building.

Stay warm and safe!