Snowfall, It’s Not Just Fun And Snowball Games

Oh, the weather outside is frightful
But the fire is so delightful
And since we’ve no place to go
Let it snow, let it snow, let it snow.

Ah, snow. It is almost everywhere, and if you’re stuck at home, you need to make the most of it. Go on, set your Spotify list on a loop with Dean Martin’s suave and warm voice whispering in your ears in the morning. There’s nothing better to put a smile on your face. However, don’t buy into his words too quickly. Snow can be fun and deeply romantic – especially if you were to trust Dean –, but it can be a source of risks too. Be careful during the snowy days!  

Getting the snowballs ready

Think about your energy bills
The weather takes its toll on your bank account. Keeping the house warm doesn’t come for free – far from it! While turning the heaters down isn’t an option, you can develop smart tricks and tips to stay warm without breaking the bank. Using timers to set the heating to start 30 minutes before you get out of bed or come back home, which means that you don’t need to heat all the time to give the impression of warmth. Make sure to invest in an effective insulation solution under the roof – your attic can lose up to 25% of the heat at home ! – and around your windows and doors. There’s no need to keep heating the outdoors as you’re trying to stay warm!

A lot of pressure on the roof
In regions where the snow has been falling heavily for a few weeks, it’s crucial to clear your roof as soon and often as possible. Indeed, as the snow accumulates on the roof, it can lead to severe damage to the surface and increase the risk of leakage. Additionally, you need to be aware of roof collapse risks, which can occur when there is too much weight on the surface. It’s a good idea, by the end of the season, to get your roof assessed for damages. You might also want to get in touch with a local metal roofing contractor to find a durable solution. Grids, partial ice and dirt trapped in the snow can affect porous roof material, while metal provides permanent protection.

You could seriously break your leg
It might seem like hard and unnecessary work, especially when every day brings more snow, but you should shovel your driveways. Indeed, the top layer of snow could hide ice on the ground. You don’t want to know how many people slip every year on their driveways. One thing is for sure; you don’t want to be the next one either!

It’s REALLY cold
You’ve heard the news. The polar vortex is intensely cold. In those frigid temperatures, you need to protect yourself from harmful consequences. It doesn’t take more than a few minutes to develop the first signs of frostbite or hypothermia. In short, don’t take any unnecessary risk. You might resent having to wrap yourself in layers upon layers before heading outside, but it’s for the best.

Snow, snow, snow everywhere! However, before heading outside for an epic snowball fight with your friends, take the time to consider your safety. Is the home warm enough? The roof and the driveway cleared? Are you dressed appropriately? Snowfall can have dramatic consequences, so always be careful before you give in to the fun!