snow outside

The winter season is here, and while that might mean putting how to figure out the average cost of a kitchen remodel or jotting down your remodel bathroom ideas on hold for now, it also means snow! And as beautiful as the snow can be, lightly tumbling down to Earth, covering the world in a beautiful winter white, it can also be pose many dangers when it comes to walking around the outside of your home. Fortunately, there are a few immediate preventative measures and even more long term preventative measures that we here at Mihalko’s General Contracting are going to share with you.

Immediate Preventative Measure

  1. Remove It. While it may be a pain in the butt to get outside and shovel during a snowstorm, it may save a pain in the butt later on! Removing the snow as quickly as possible is a fantastic way to make sure snow and ice does not build up on your walking path. If you can’t remove the snow during the storm, make sure you remove it first thing in the morning.
  2. Salt. Salt is a great way to prevent snow and ice build up, though it’s important to be cautious of how much you use. When the salt and snow turn to slush water, the water can seep into the ground and ultimately destroy the grass and plants around your walkway. A few ways to lessen the hazards of salt and brine are to buy pet friendly products, cut the product with sand or kitty litter, and always follow the manufacturer’s instructions.

Long Term Preventative Measures

  1. Hardscape. When planning your home, think about winter. If there are highly trafficked areas, make sure to keep these areas as smooth and level as possible. Additionally, think about laying out a product that naturally has traction, like concrete, natural stone, or even wood.
  2. Heat. It’s the more expensive options and the one that may call for some budget remodeling, but this will definitely get the job done. Adding a heating system underneath your driveway or walkway is a sure fire way to prevent ice and snow build up during a storm.
  3. Railings. With something to hold onto as you walk it’s much easier to stand your ground. Adding a railing to your walkway, or even your driveway, can help unwanted slips and falls during the winter season and lend a hand to older family members all year round.
  4. Lighting. Often times homeowners and family members will slip on snow and ice because they didn’t see it. Adding lights to pathways is a splendid way to help safely guide your friends and family to their destination. Additionally, many options are available including sensor lights, pathway lights, and even tube or “Christmas” lights.

The winter season is a beautiful time of year, but it can also be dangerous. Ensuring the safety of your family and friends is our top priority, which is why we’ve shared some of our best tips and tricks. And when it comes time to installing the necessary safety measures for the winter season, call a contracting family you can trust. Call a general contractor who has been serving its neighbors in the Johnstown PA, Latrobe PA and Altoona PA area for over 34 years. Call Mihalko’s General Contracting for your winter safety installation needs.

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