Moving to a new home is exciting, but it can also be stressful if you have to worry about snow and ice on top of packing your belongings and getting them to the new house. If you need to prepare for a winter move, get organized and plan ahead for inclement weather. Here are some tips to help your move go as smoothly as possible.
Protect the Floors
Winter weather means road salt and ice melt on the sidewalks, parking lots, and roads. When this is tracked into your home on the soles of shoes, these substances can scratch, discolor, and damage hardwood flooring.
On moving day, put down towels, tarps, or plastic sheeting on the floors to prevent damage.
Prepare for Winter Weather During Your Move
Plan ahead by keeping an eye on the weather in the days leading up to your move. It’s also smart to watch the forecast for the areas you will be traveling through.
Especially, when you are moving a long distance, pay close attention to the road conditions you might encounter along the way. Make sure that every vehicle you are traveling with has an emergency kit in case of any problems.
Keep Kids and Pets Safe
When movers are in your home and you are loading heavy furniture and boxes, pets and children can get in the way.
During the move, board your pets or hire a babysitter to stay with your pets and kids elsewhere until the move is complete. If you have an older child, you could assign them to watch younger kids and pets in a separate room. Make sure there are activities to keep them occupied while you’re loading the truck.
Prepare for a Winter Move by Separating Temperature-Sensitive Items
One of the biggest concerns that many homeowners face when moving is an important or valuable item becoming damaged or lost during the move.
If you are driving a vehicle, pack anything sentimental, fragile, or temperature-sensitive inside your car. Medications and electronics might be damaged due to cold temperatures in the back of the moving van.
Clear the Driveway and Walkways
Safety comes first and that is especially true when there is snow on the ground. On the morning of your move, clear off all walkways, steps, and the driveway on your property.
Treat the pavement with ice melt and make sure that there is plenty of space for the moving truck to park. Keep your shovel and ice melt stored in a place that is easy to access so that you can repeat the ice removal process when you arrive at your new home.
Realistic Home Inspection Services offers inspections to homebuyers and sellers in the greater Milwaukee area. Contact us to schedule our services.