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Storm Kristin brought a blast of snow across various parts of Spain on Wednesday, reminding us all how vital it is to prepare homes for these chilly spells. The General Council of Technical Architecture of Spain (CGATE) has shared some straightforward advice to help avoid frost damage and keep things running smoothly. Even if snow isn't a daily occurrence where you live, these steps can save a lot of hassle.

 

Start with the basics inside. Keep ventilating your home regularly, no matter how cold it gets. High CO2 levels from sealed-up rooms can harm health, so a quick freshen-up of air makes a real difference.

 

Next, think about staying warm and draft-free. Thermal insulation is the top way to shield against freezing temperatures. If major upgrades aren't feasible right now, fit weatherstripping around doors and windows. Rugs and curtains add extra cosiness and block chilly gusts too.

 

Pipes are a common worry when frost hits, so here's what to do. Turn on taps now and then to keep water trickling, which stops it freezing solid inside. Know exactly where your stopcock is and how to use it, just in case. For outside pipes or irrigation systems, drain them fully or wrap with insulation, newspaper and tape as a quick fix. And if pipes do freeze, skip the hot water, it could make them burst. Use a hairdryer for gentle dry heat instead.

 

Have buckets or containers filled with water ready indoors. They'll cover essentials if pipes fail. Should a pipe burst anyway, shut off the main valve straight away, turn down heaters, and place buckets to catch leaks.

 

Outside calls for action too. Clear snow from doorways, gates, garages and roofs before it turns to slippery ice. Sprinkle salt to melt it safely. Lay sawdust or cardboard in communal stairs and lifts to prevent falls. On access roads, shovel away build-ups as soon as you can.

 

Older boilers need extra care, especially on terraces. Insulate them well since they lack modern thermostats. And a gentle reminder on heating: stoves and braziers give quick warmth but watch for poor combustion, toxic gases or fire risks.

 

These simple habits can make all the difference. As CGATE advises, acting early means less stress later. Stay safe and snug through the cold snap!