As soon as the temperature drops below freezing (or even before), you must prep your home for winter storms. Whenever there is a chance of snow, people immediately run to the nearest grocery store for necessities. But is the actual structure of your home prepared for what’s to come? Yes, it is important to stock up on the food basics, but to be truly ready for a snowstorm, your home must be just as prepared as your pantry. Follow these seven tips on what to do around the house before it snows.

Inspect the exterior of your home. 

Because temperatures fluctuate depending on the season, your home gradually shifts, which can lead to cracks. Inspect the exterior of your home, and check for cracks in the stucco before a snowstorm hits. It would help if you also power washed your siding and deck to remove any dirt and debris that built up over the fall. The professional painters in Alpharetta, GA, say that the best way to protect your home from winter storm damage is by repainting the exterior in the summer or fall. Being proactive will lessen the fixes you’ll need to make come springtime.

Check your windows and doors. 

Windows and doors with cracks or gaps can lead to heat escaping from your home and cause your heating system to work overtime. Weatherproofing your windows and doors saves you money and helps keep your home warm. Caulk any areas where you can feel a draft. If the windows are old and unsalvagable, consider replacing the windows and doors altogether. Also, don’t forget to wash your windows before you’re trapped inside.

Protect your outdoor furniture.

If you have deck or patio furniture outside year-round, everything should be tied down and covered come wintertime. You don’t want strong winds to blow your furniture around. And, you don’t want harsh storms causing irreversible damage. Better yet, if you have space in a garage or shed, bring the furniture indoors. 

Show off your extra blankets.

Setting out extra blankets throughout your home is a simple yet practical task to take on before a snowstorm. Doing this ahead of a cold front will prevent you from rummaging in the dark if the power were to go out during a storm. Not only that, but it can be a great design touch to your home. An interior decorator in Mercer County says you can layer multiple throw blankets over the back of your couch or on an ottoman. Use fabrics like faux fur, wool, and cashmere in complementary color palettes and designs. 

Clean your gutters. 

Cleaning your gutters should be a top priority before a snowstorm. If your gutters are full of dirt and debris, the water won’t drain properly and can cause damage to your roof, home, siding, and wood trim. Not only that, but clogged gutters can cause leaks and ice dams that could lead to a medical mishap. 

Repair your drywall.

Since the holidays put a dent in most of our pockets, we tend to avoid home maintenance projects. But, before a snowstorm, it is essential to do the home repairs that affect your safety. For example, if you have damaged drywall—especially a hole in the wall—you have to fix it! Gaps in your wall can cause a draft and make your home colder.

Have a professional perform a fireplace inspection and chimney sweep. 

If you have a fireplace, getting it inspected before winter comes along is vital to surviving the season. You don’t want to rely on electricity to heat your home in the event of a power outage. Plus, if your fireplace is clogged, it could cause a fire in your home. While you’re at it, add some style to your fireplace. Update the decor on your mantel. This could be as simple as swapping out old family photos for new ones or replacing the candles with different scents.

You don’t want to jeopardize the safety of yourself or your family during a winter storm. Prep your home before the snow hits!