Do you know what’s not fun? A winter storm in New Jersey.
It’s safe to say that all homeowners can agree that winter storms, especially those that leave you stranded in your car or house for hours, or even days, are no fun. When it comes to preparing for these storms, it’s not just about stocking up on food and water, it’s also about ensuring that your home is ready for whatever Mother Nature throws at it.
To prepare for a winter storm, you’ll need to ensure your home is ready. In this article, we’ll discuss some of the ways you can prepare for these storms. Keep reading to learn more!
Winter Forecast For New Jersey
As we all know, winter in New Jersey can be unpredictable, with temperatures ranging from mild to downright frigid and snowfall measurements varying from year to year. That’s why it’s so important to stay informed about the weather forecast and be prepared for whatever Mother Nature has in store.
According to the latest winter outlook from the National Climate Prediction Center, which is affiliated with the National Weather Service, New Jersey can expect a warmer-than-average winter season this year. However, it’s unclear whether we’ll see more or less snow than normal, so it’s important to stay vigilant and prepared. The prediction also holds true for New York City and eastern Pennsylvania.
So how can you stay informed about the weather forecast?
You can take a few simple steps to stay on top of the weather in your area:
Check local news sources: Many local news stations offer regular updates on the weather forecasts and any severe weather warnings or alerts. You can select from various news sources. However, our favorite is nj.com. They really stay true to their motto, “True Jersey”!
Download a weather app: Many apps are available that provide real-time updates on the weather, including alerts for severe weather. We recommend getting the AccuWeather application as it is easy to use and depicts accurate data.
Follow your local weather service on social media: Many local weather services have active social media accounts sharing updates and alerts. Our team recommends the NY NJ PA Weather, owned by Meteorologist Steven DiMartino on Twitter.
By staying informed about the weather forecast, you can be better prepared for whatever winter has in store.
Have An Emergency Kit
As homeowners, it’s important for you to be prepared for the possibility of severe weather, including snow and ice storms. One way to do this is by having an emergency kit on hand.
So what should you include in your emergency kit?
We recommend stocking up on non-perishable food, bottled water, flashlights, a battery-powered radio, extra blankets, and a basic first aid kit. These items can help you and your family stay safe and comfortable if you become stranded or isolated during a storm.
Remember to check and restock your kit periodically
It’s important to periodically check your emergency kit to ensure that it is fully stocked and ready to use. Make sure to replace any expired or used items and add any new items as needed.
By having an emergency kit on hand and staying informed about the weather forecast, you can be better prepared to weather the storm and keep yourself and your loved ones safe. Stay safe, and warm this winter!
Protect Your Pipes
As winter storms in New Jersey approach, it’s important to consider protecting your home from the cold. One area that often gets overlooked is plumbing. Frozen pipes can be a major headache, causing costly damage and inconvenience. If these pipes are located in an unheated portion of your home, you should take particular care in preventing them from freezing, as frozen water will expand and possibly burst the pipe.
So how can you prevent your pipes from freezing?
You can take a few simple steps to protect your pipes from freezing:
- Insulate them: Wrapping them in insulation is an easy and effective way to keep them from freezing. Make sure to pay extra attention to pipes that are located in unheated areas, such as basements and crawl spaces.
- Leave your faucets slightly open: Allowing a small stream of water to flow through your pipes can help prevent them from freezing.
- Keep your thermostat set to the same temperature: If you’re going to be away from home for an extended period of time, make sure to set your thermostat to the same temperature as when you’re home. This can help prevent your pipes from freezing.
These tips can help you prevent your pipes from freezing and protect your home from the dangers of winter weather.
Keep Your Home Warm
From sealing drafts to using draft stoppers, there are various ways you can help keep your home toasty even on the coldest days. Here are a few tips to help you stay warm this winter:
- Seal drafts: Drafts can let in cold air and make your home feel much colder than it is. To help seal drafts, you can use weatherstripping on your doors and windows, and caulk any gaps or cracks.
- Use draft stoppers: Draft stoppers, which are often made of fabric or foam, can be placed at the bottom of doors and windows to help prevent drafts from coming into your home.
- Close off unused rooms: If you have rooms that you don’t often use, consider closing them off to help conserve heat. This can be as simple as shutting the door or hanging a heavy curtain over the door.
- Keep your thermostat set to a consistent temperature: Setting your thermostat to a consistent temperature can help keep your home warm and cozy.
By following these simple tips, you can help ensure that your home stays warm and comfortable all winter long.
Prepare Your Roof And Gutters
Winter storms can be tough on your roof and gutters, causing damage and even costly repairs if you’re not prepared. That’s why taking a few simple precautions is important before the winter weather arrives. From cleaning out your gutters to adding ice and water barriers, here are a few steps you can take to protect your roof and gutters this winter:
- Clean out your gutters: Before the winter storm in New Jersey arrives, make sure to clear out any leaves, sticks, or debris that may be clogging your gutters. This can help prevent water from backing up and potentially damaging your roof.
- Repair any damage: If you notice any damage to your roof or gutters, repair it before the winter storm starts. Small problems can quickly turn into bigger issues during a storm.
- Add ice and water barriers: If you live in an area that is prone to ice dams, consider adding ice and water barriers to your roof. These barriers help prevent water from seeping under the shingles and causing damage.
If you’re in the Villas or Hainesport area of New Jersey, our team at Champion Exteriors can help with your gutters and roofing needs.
Our team is made up of qualified professionals who are dedicated to delivering high-quality workmanship. We have many years of experience in the industry, so we know exactly how to get the job done right!
Want to learn more about our services? Call us at (609) 845-3576 for an estimate on your next project!
Stay Safe On The Roads
Winter storms can be tough on the roads, with snow, ice, and freezing temperatures making for treacherous driving conditions. To stay safe on the roads during a winter storm, it’s important to take a few simple precautions.
So what can you do to stay safe on the roads during a winter storm?
- Drive slowly: Snow and ice can make roads slippery and reduce visibility, so it’s important to slow down and allow extra time to reach your destination.
- Keep a safe distance from other vehicles: Snow and ice can also make it more difficult to stop, so leaving plenty of space between your car and the car in front of you is important.
- Carry a winter emergency kit in your car: It’s a good idea to keep a winter emergency kit in your car if you become stranded, or need to make any necessary repairs. This kit should include items such as a blanket, extra warm clothing, a flashlight, and a first aid kit.
Final Thoughts
Winter is here, so it’s time to take action and prepare for winter storms.
Winter storms in New Jersey can be dangerous and destructive, but with the right preparations, you can protect your home and family from harm. Be sure to start preparations before the New Jersey winter storm season starts looming.
Take the time now to gather supplies, protect your pipes, prepare your roof, and stay informed about the weather. If you need help with home improvements to your roof or gutters, contact our team at Champion Exteriors.
Remember, it’s always better to be safe than sorry. By taking these proactive steps, you can confidently face any winter storm that comes your way. Don’t forget to check on your neighbors and loved ones either, especially those who may be more vulnerable to the cold.
Together, we can all weather the winter storms in New Jersey safely and securely.