The infamous British weather can be so unpredictable, going from mild to harsh overnight, so it’s essential to ensure your home is well-prepared to cope with the Winter months.
Follow our winter-prep tips to help you avoid unnecessary (and expensive) repairs.
1. Look after your pipes!
Burst pipes are a common issue for many during the winter, thanks to the expansion of frozen water. This can be easily avoided by lagging your pipes and water tank, using insulating foam. If you have an external tap, make sure this is insulated, and if it’s got a drip, get it repaired!
It’s also worth finding out where you can turn off your water supply - just in case!
2. Service your boiler
It’s recommended you have your boiler serviced annually, but if it’s been a while, it might be worthwhile booking one in – a broken boiler in freezing weather can be quite stressful, resulting in all sorts of hassle while you get it sorted. You can then check with your heating engineer whether or not you’re using your boiler efficiently.
Also, bleed your radiators to keep them working at their best.
3. Check the roof
Over time, our gutters end up collecting all sorts of unwanted extras, such as leaves, birds’ nests, and even the odd tennis ball! Make sure your gutters are clear of blockages and cut back any nearby branches which could cause damage if they were to fall off... And if you spot any broken or missing roof tiles while you’re up your ladder, get them replaced.
Back indoors, fitting loft and cavity wall insulation will help to keep the warmth in.
4. Deal with the draughts
Check all of your doors and deal with any draughts using some inexpensive quick-fixes:
- Get a key cover for any large keyholes
- Use draught excluders in your doorways
- Invest in a letterbox draught excluder
- Install sheepswool insulation in your dog or cat flap
- Add a rug to any un-carpeted floors
5. Improve your windows
Double-glazed windows are a good investment, offering that extra barrier against escaping heat, and are also now available in different styles to suit any home. However, if you’re not looking to replace your windows at the moment you could consider these quick fixes:
- Use self-adhesive foam strips to fill in any gaps around your windows
- Keep your curtains open to let warmth from the sunlight in, then close them once the sun goes down
- If you have a Conservatory, fit blinds to your windows and add a rug
6. Don’t forget the fireplace
Those cosy nights in front of the fire won’t be so cosy if there’s falling debris, or the smoke is unable to make its way out of the chimney! Call in the chimney sweep to keep it all clear.
Alternatively, if your open fireplace is only a decorative one, why not consider having a chimney balloon fitted? That way you can prevent draughts and keep your heating bills down.
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If you think replacing your doors or fitting new windows would be the most cost-effective way to get your home winter-ready, don’t hesitate to get in touch!
Do you have any other top winter preparation tips you’d like to share?