Snowed In? 6 DIY Home Improvement Projects to Tackle During Winter Storms

It’s January, and although it’s been a fairly mild and uneventful winter so far, we Canadians know better than to assume it’ll be a “dry” season. So, in the spirit of embracing the harsh Canadian winters, I thought I’d throw together a little guide filled with creative DIY home improvement projects to help you get through those days when you’re snowed in. As a homeowner, I've discovered a few projects that not only combat cabin fever but also enhance the coziness of my living space. Let's dive into these winter-friendly DIY endeavours that anyone can tackle.

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1. Winter-Proofing Your Windows

When the snow starts to pile up outside, it's a good time to ensure your windows are sealed tight to keep the cold air out. This is quite literally one of the simplest DIY projects, but not if you’re not prepared. Weatherstripping around your windows will make a noticeable difference in maintaining a comfortable temperature indoors, trust me. Check out this helpful guide on weatherstripping from the Department of Energy.

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2. DIY Draft Stoppers

Along a similar vein are drafty doors. Did you know that doors are one of the most significant contributors to heat loss in your home? I know, it’s insane! So, crafting your very own draft stoppers is a fun and practical solution to that problem. I stumbled upon a fantastic tutorial on creating DIY draft stoppers that will not only save energy but also add a touch of personal flair to your space.

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3. Winter Garden Indoors

If you’re looking for a more involved, more personalized DIY project, and you find yourself missing the greenery during the winter months, consider starting an indoor garden. Try out growing some herbs or small plants to add a burst of life to your home. This was a project that I was curious to try out, and very quickly became a MASSIVE obsession of mine. I mean, who doesn’t love a DIY project that connects you with nature even when it's frosty outside? When I started my indoor garden, I followed Food Revolution Network’s resource.

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4. Creative Winter-Themed Decor

Not all home projects need to transform the functionality and livability of your home, sometimes, they can just be fun. Inject some seasonal charm into your living space with DIY winter-themed decor. If you have kids home from school on a snow day, why not try making some homemade snowflake garlands. Amazon is sure to still be running no matter what the weather, so you could order a DIY cozy blanket kit and make a decorative blanket for your couch. Have fun with the DIY projects you choose to tackle, and making them winter-themed will make the season feel a bit more bearable. 

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5. Insulate Your Attic

And this last one is for the DIY enthusiasts who are looking for something more ambitious. If you’re looking to get your hands deep in a DIY project, consider insulating your attic to keep your home warmer and more energy-efficient. This DIY project requires more effort but pays off in the long run. Now, I can’t personally say I’ve had the energy to take on this size DIY project, but there are lots of guides out there for you to follow. Check out this informative guide on DIY attic insulation from Energy Star.

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6. Try Out A Hone DIY Guide or Project Kit

We’ve chatted about this awesome company before, but Hone sells DIY project guides for accent walls, and they recently launched their project kits for drawer organizers (for things like kitchen utensils, make-up, you name it!) These are extremely satisfying projects to do yourself because they either enhance your home’s aesthetics, if you choose an accent wall, or improve your home’s organization if you choose a project kit. I can’t recommend Hone enough!

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These winter DIY home improvement projects aren't just a way to pass the time during a snowstorm; they are actually a huge contributor to a more comfortable and energy-efficient home. As a homeowner who has embraced some of these projects myself, I can attest to the rewarding feeling of making my living space cozier and more resilient to the winter chill. So, grab your toolkit, get creative, and turn those snowed-in days into opportunities for a better home!

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