Vivid Doors While cold weather is pretty familiar in the UK, snow isn’t a frequent concern. But, when it does hit, it can create unexpected problems – like blocking your front door.
As far as weather conditions go, we’re more accustomed to rain, but it’s worth being prepared for the occasional heavy snow flurry. Here’s how you can deal with snow effectively while protecting your home.
How to Clear Snow from Your Front Door and Driveway
When snow builds up, it can cause havoc on your property and external doors if not dealt with quickly. Here are some handy tips for how to clear it safely and efficiently:
Use a Plastic Tarp
Before the snow falls, place a plastic tarp on your driveway and paths. Every couple of hours, lift the tarp to reveal a snow-free surface.
Sock Trick for Ice
If it’s already snowed, putting socks over your shoes can add extra grip while you’re clearing snow. This reduces the risk of slipping on icy surfaces.
Cooking Spray on Shovels
Spray some cooking oil on your shovel. This will prevent snow from sticking, making the job quicker and easier.
Shovelling Tips
Always use a shovel with an ergonomic handle, or purchase an attachment to reduce strain. Steel-capped shoes or sturdy boots are essential for safety.
Use Salt
Once you’ve cleared the snow, sprinkle salt over your driveway and paths to prevent more snow from sticking and turning into ice.
What should I do if I’m trapped inside by snow?
Sometimes, the snowfall can be so heavy that it can block your front door, making it difficult to get outside – made even more difficult if you have an outward opening door. Here are some useful strategies for getting unstuck:
Compact the Snow by Opening and Closing the Door
If you do have an outward opening door, start by gently pushing the door open and closed repeatedly. This can help compact the snow and create a small gap that you can use to work your way out.
Try an Alternate Exit
If the front door is completely snowed in, try exiting through another door or even a ground-level window, if safe.
Ask a Neighbour for Help
If it’s safe to do so, try contacting a neighbour to help clear the snow from outside. This might be tricky in a snowstorm, but it’s worth a shot.
Call for Help
If none of these methods work and the snow is too deep, call a friend, family member, or even a professional service for assistance – ensuring it’s safe for them to reach you.
Protecting Your Home from Snow Damage
Snow isn’t just a nuisance – it can cause significant damage to your home, especially to a wooden door, door frame and any wooden outdoor furniture. The key to preventing snow-related damage is early action and proper maintenance.
Can snow damage wooden doors?
Yes, snow can cause serious damage to wooden doors if the water from melted snow penetrates the wood, leading to rot and structural issues.
When snow melts, the water can seep into wood, causing it to expand, rot and eventually break down. This can affect doors, frames, decking and other outdoor furniture.
Prolonged exposure to moisture leads to structural damage, warping and what can end up being costly repairs. The warping can also cause heat loss, costing you more in energy bills too.
What’s the best way to treat wooden doors before winter?
Use a high-quality waterproofing treatment designed specifically for wood and add weather stripping. This will help protect the door from moisture and extend its lifespan as well as help prevent warm air escaping.
How to Protect Wooden Doors and Hardware
- Treat the Wood: Applying a weather-resistant treatment creates a barrier between the wood and water. This not only prevents damage but also helps maintain the wood’s colour and finish over time.
- Move Outdoor Furniture Inside: Any wooden furniture or decorations should be brought inside before snowfall to protect them from moisture damage.
- Repair Cracks: Inspect your wooden doors and frames for cracks during warmer months. Fill them in to prevent ice from forming inside, which can cause the cracks to widen.
How can I prevent my front door from getting blocked by snow?
It’s always better to prevent snow from becoming a problem in the first place. There are several effective ways to ensure your front door stays clear throughout the winter.
Regular Shovelling
Shovelling snow regularly – every 1-2 hours during a snowstorm – is essential. If you wait too long, the snow can become compacted or turn into ice, making it much harder to remove.
Build a Snow Fence
A snow fence can block or at least help reduce the amount of snow that piles up near your door. These fences, often made from plastic or wire, allow wind to pass through but catch the snow, keeping it from drifting toward your home.
Position the fence at a 30-degree angle to the direction of the wind for optimal results.
Use Natural Barriers
If you’re thinking long-term, planting shrubs or trees around your property can act as natural barriers, reducing snow buildup. Not only do these barriers add privacy, but they can also improve the look of your garden and add some kerb appeal.
Heated Doormats
For a modern approach, consider heated doormats. These mats melt the snow upon contact, ensuring that your entryway stays clear and safe throughout the snowfall. Combined with regular salting of your driveway and paths, this creates an extra layer of protection against snow buildup at your door.
Install a Storm Canopy
While this isn’t the cheapest or easiest option, it’s definitely one of the more permanent solutions. Installing a canopy above your front door can help prevent snow buildup on the ground immediately in front of the door, it can also serve as a welcome respite as you fumble to find your door key when it’s raining heavily too.
How does a snow fence work?
A snow fence reduces the amount of snow drifting toward a specific area. It allows wind to pass through but traps the snow, preventing large drifts from forming.
What are heated doormats and how do they help?
Heated doormats are electric mats placed at your entrance. They melt snow on contact, ensuring a clear, safe pathway without needing constant shovelling.
They can prove especially useful if you have steps leading up to your front door.
What to Do When Snow Comes a-Knocking
Once snowfall begins, the clock starts ticking on how to keep your home safe and functional.
Here’s what you should do during and after the storm:
- Monitor the Weather Forecast: Always keep an eye on weather updates to anticipate heavy snowstorms. If a storm is approaching, get ready by gathering supplies and shovels.
- Clear Snow Regularly: As mentioned before, it’s crucial to shovel snow regularly to prevent blockages.
- Treat Wooden Surfaces Beforehand: If you missed your chance to treat wood before the snow, do it as soon as possible once the weather improves.
- Prepare for Extended Snowstorms: If the forecast predicts a lengthy snowstorm, make sure you have enough food and supplies in case you become snowed in. Keep communication lines open and let friends or family know your situation.
What should I do to prepare for a snowstorm?
Ensure you always have enough food, water and essentials for several days. Gather shovels, salt, and other snow-clearing tools, and make sure your wood is treated to prevent snow damage.
Preparing for Snow This Winter
Snow may not be an everyday occurrence in the UK, but when it arrives, it can create significant challenges. Being prepared – whether it’s by shovelling regularly, setting up snow fences, or treating wooden surfaces and adding weather stripping – ensures that your home remains safe and functional throughout the winter.
The key to dealing with snow effectively is to act quickly and think ahead. A bit of early effort can save you from larger problems later on.
Follow our tips and when the snow comes, you’ll be ready to handle whatever winter throws your way!
