5 Home Hacks for Colder Weather

Caring for Your Home When It Snows: Tips for Homeowners in Cincinnati

As a realtor in Cincinnati, I know that we can experience unpredictable weather, and this winter has certainly delivered with record-breaking snowfall this week! While snow-covered streets may be a beautiful sight, the aftermath can be a bit more challenging, especially for homeowners. From shoveling your driveway to ensuring your home stays safe and warm, winter weather can put extra stress on your property. Here are some essential tips to help you take care of your home during a snowstorm, protect its value, and ensure a safe environment for your family.

1. Clear Your Walkways and Driveways

One of the most immediate concerns during a heavy snowfall is ensuring that your walkways and driveways are clear. Not only does this make your home more accessible, but it also helps to prevent accidents. If you’re shoveling, use a good quality shovel or consider a snow blower for larger areas. Be sure to salt or use sand on icy patches, particularly around stairs, sidewalks, and driveways. This can prevent accidents and make it easier for you or any visitors to navigate the property safely.

Tip: Start shoveling early and take breaks if you’re dealing with a heavy, wet snow. The longer snow sits on surfaces, the harder it is to remove.

2. Inspect Your Roof and Gutters

Heavy snow accumulation on your roof can lead to significant problems, especially if it turns into ice. The weight of the snow can cause your roof to sag or even collapse in extreme cases. Ice dams can also form along the eaves of your roof, preventing proper drainage and potentially leading to leaks.

What to do: After a heavy snowfall, safely remove any snow from the roof using a roof rake with a long handle. If you suspect ice dams are forming, it may be worth having a professional come out to clear the buildup. Also, make sure your gutters are clear of debris to allow proper drainage.

3. Check Your Heating System

When snowstorms hit, it’s crucial to make sure your heating system is working efficiently. Cold temperatures can put extra strain on your furnace, and no one wants to deal with a heating failure in the middle of a storm.

And I know this from experience—my furnace was having issues, and I woke up to my home being a chilly 56 degrees inside! It’s always a wake-up call to realize how much we depend on our heating systems, especially during a winter storm.

What to do: If you haven’t already, schedule a furnace inspection before the heavy snow season begins. Check the filter, clean vents, and ensure the thermostat is functioning properly. Keep an eye on the temperature inside your home, and if it starts to dip, consider using space heaters (safely, of course) until the problem is resolved.

Let me know if you need any recommendations for local contractors or trusted professionals to check your heating system. I have great connections and would be happy to share trusted contacts with you.

4. Protect Pipes from Freezing

In Cincinnati, temperatures often dip below freezing during winter storms, putting your pipes at risk of freezing and bursting. A burst pipe can lead to costly repairs and serious water damage.

What to do: Insulate pipes in unheated areas like your attic, basement, or crawl spaces. If you have any exposed pipes, consider wrapping them in foam insulation. Let faucets drip during extremely cold nights to keep water moving through the pipes. Open cabinet doors under sinks to allow warmer air to circulate around pipes.

5. Inspect Your Outdoor Pipes and Hoses

Freezing temperatures can cause outdoor water lines, hoses, and faucets to freeze, which can lead to bursts or leaks when temperatures rise again. With snow covering everything, it’s easy to forget about the outdoor plumbing.

What to do: Disconnect and store any garden hoses to prevent them from freezing. If you have outdoor faucets, insulate them with foam covers or consider shutting off the water supply to exterior pipes. This can save you from the hassle of dealing with costly repairs down the road.

6. Prepare for Power Outages

Snowstorms often come with power outages, especially when heavy snow accumulates on trees and power lines. Being without power for an extended period can be uncomfortable and even dangerous.

What to do: Keep essential supplies like flashlights, batteries, blankets, and non-perishable food on hand. If you live in an area prone to outages, consider investing in a generator to keep your home heated and your devices charged in case of an emergency.

7. Keep an Eye on Your Home’s Insulation

Proper insulation is key when temperatures drop, as it helps to keep your home warm and prevents drafts. Poor insulation not only increases your energy bills but also leaves your home vulnerable to cold air entering through gaps.

What to do: Check for drafts around windows, doors, and vents. Use weather stripping or caulking to seal any gaps. Additionally, ensure that your attic is properly insulated, as heat can easily escape from this area. If you notice any chilly spots, consider adding extra insulation where needed to keep the warmth in and the cold out.

8. Stay Safe When Removing Snow

Shoveling snow can be physically demanding, and it’s important to take care of your health while clearing driveways and walkways. Snow shoveling can lead to muscle strains, back injuries, and even heart issues if you’re not careful.

What to do: Use proper lifting techniques when shoveling, bend your knees and lift with your legs, not your back. Consider using a snow blower if the snow is deep. If you have a large driveway or multiple walkways to clear, it may be worth hiring a snow removal service.

Final Thoughts

Taking these proactive steps can help keep your home safe, warm, and comfortable during the winter months, especially when we see significant snowfall like we did this week in Cincinnati. Remember, being prepared can not only protect your property but also keep your family and visitors safe.

As a realtor, I always recommend taking care of the little things around your home. It’s not only about maintaining your property’s value; it’s also about ensuring your peace of mind during the winter season. Stay safe and warm!

Bonus Tip for Homeowners:

If you’re looking for great products to help maintain and organize your home, check out my Amazon storefront! I’ve curated a list of all my favorite home items and recommendations, perfect for home maintenance, décor, and new homeowners. You can find everything from practical tools to cozy essentials that will make your home feel even more inviting.

You can visit my storefront here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/tdevito00

Feel free to follow me on Instagram for more home tips, real estate advice, and home inspiration at @tayloringhomes.