Admit it, when the snow starts to fall, you do get a little bit excited don't you? No matter how old we are, the child inside of us remembers the days of snow fights, sledging and the delicious hot chocolate that would warm us up afterwards [even if it was only last year]. But for many homeowners, snow is now becoming a significant problem and doesn't represent the fun it used to.

1. Rising Heating Costs

For many of us, the onset of cold weather is becoming more and more costly. As the price of fuel continues to rise, being able to meet those increased winter bills is becoming harder and harder.

If you are having trouble meeting your winter fuel bills, contact your local citizen's advice bureau and see if you are eligible for any support. You may be entitled to free or subsidised insulation for your home or addition financial help.

Whatever you do, try to keep your entire home warm and avoid turning off the heating when at all possible. The potential cost of the damage caused by snow and cold weather can be far more costly than the additional expense on your heating bills.

2. Weight of Snow

One of the things many of us forget is how much a build up of snow can weigh. Unlike water, snow will not instantly fall away which means you have an additional burden that can cause a threat to weak or vulnerable constructions.

Whenever you are expecting snow check your roofs, walls and fences to see if any areas need extra support. Consider removing large volumes of snow to decrease the extra burden but only when it is safe to do so.

3. Melting Snow and Icicles

Though icicles hanging of the side of your house can look attractive, they can be the first sign of a significant problem.

If icicles are forming on your home it means that central areas of snow are defrosting quicker than the outside and pools of water are forming on your roof and in your gutters.

Such a collection of water can be severely detrimental to your home and can cause cracks or leaks which can lead to flood damage.

To reduce the likelihood of icicles forming, try to reduce the loss of heat through your roof which causes the snow to melt. Ensure you have adequate roof and loft insulation and keep your gutters clear so that more water can flow away properly.

4. The Risk of Floods

The risk of flooding when a heavy snow fall starts to thaw can be significant. Already high water tables can be pushed over the edge by the spontaneous increase in water caused simply because the temperature has increased.

To try and reduce the risks of flooding to your home, remove snow from around your property and pile it up away from residential areas. Not only will this remove the threat of flooding to the local area but, by piling it up, the snow will thaw more gradually giving the water time to absorb the extra liquid without causing a flood.

About the author: Guest Post provided by Allkare, a UK disaster restoration company with over a decade of experience in water, flood and fire damage repair.