Snowfall can be beautiful, but it can also be dangerous. While snow can create scenic landscapes and cozy winter nights, too much snow can cause accidents, property damage, and can even result in severe injuries. If you’re a homeowner, it is your responsibility to take care of your property when the snowfall hits hard. Being prepared ahead of time can make a huge difference in how your home handles the snow. In this article, we will discuss some helpful tips on how to prevent potential problems when hit by heavy snow.

Install a Snow Fence
A heavy snow fence is a barrier made of wooden or plastic slats that are installed around your property to reduce snow and windblown debris from accumulating on your lawn. Especially when your home is off-set or isolated from nearby homes, having an effective barrier preventing your home from being snowed over is essential. Snow fences can also protect against property damage, like broken trees, branches, and other debris that can be blown into your yard by high winds. If you’re interested in the effort every year, you can consider looking into more portable options that can be erected when a storm is coming and taken down when the season ends. However, unless there are city regulations that prevent it, it’s likely going to be best to simply build something permanent.
Clear Your Gutters of Debris
Your gutters are essential drainage systems that help to keep rainwater and snowmelt away from your property’s foundation. However, if your gutters get clogged with debris, snowmelt and rainwater will not drain correctly, causing water to back up and enter your home. This can cause excessive damage to the foundation, walls, and ceilings of your home. To prevent this from happening, ensure you clear your gutters of dirt, snow, and other debris before the heavy snow hits. If you aren’t able to clear them out before the snow, or if you’re caught off-guard by the intensity of the weather, getting a shovel and doing your best to clear them out can offer at least a little assistance until you can safely get back up to clean them out properly.
Prepare Your Roof for Heavy Snow
Your roof is one of the most significant areas that can cause damage to your home if left unattended during heavy snow. Snow on the roof can accumulate rapidly, adding weight and putting a strain on the structure of your home. It can also cause the roof to collapse. To avoid this, keep your roof in excellent condition by checking for leaks and other damages before the snow arrives. Professional roofing experts, such as Brown’s Roofing, can help diagnose potential issues if you notice anything is amiss with your roof.
Stock up on Supplies Before the Storm
An important step in preparing for heavy snowfall is stocking up on essential supplies like food, water, and fuel. This is especially crucial if a snowstorm is expected to last several days. Make sure you have enough firewood, blankets, flashlights, and other essentials to stay warm in case of power outages. Coordinate with your neighbors as well, especially if there are any elderly families nearby who might not be able to clear their own snow or prepare adequately. While not traditionally a pleasant experience, being properly prepared for heavy snow can make for some positive memories instead of sheer misery and cold.
Don’t be Afraid to Get Some Help
Sometimes, especially when your area is prone to intense snowstorms, there’s simply too much for you to do alone. Therefore, Getting help is always best, especially if you’re stuck and unable to address the heavy snow yourself. Enlisting the help of your neighbors can be not only a solution to your own issue, but a means of helping others on your street as well. Once you’ve gotten out of your house, grabbing a shovel and helping your neighbors is the best way to repay the kindness of those who helped you. Heavy snow brings a lot of issues with it, but it can also be a means of bringing you closer to your community.
Closing Thoughts on Being Prepared for Heavy Snow and Storms
In conclusion, being a homeowner comes with responsibilities, especially when it comes to heavy snow. Don’t wait for the worst to happen, and take proactive measures to prepare for potential emergencies. The tips we’ve discussed above can help you protect your property and family during the toughest winter months. From clearing your gutters to stocking up on supplies, your preparedness can make a tremendous difference in keeping you and your home safe this winter.