Now that we have started to really fee the difference between the long summer nights and the autumn nights it’s getting clearer that winter is definitely on its way. With the weather getting wetter and colder, and the nights getting darker earlier it’s time to think about getting your home ready for the winter months.
Photo by Kadri Vosumae from Pexels
Although winter comes every year, it’s surprising how little people stick to a routine winter checklist to ensure the security and warmth of their homes. The harsh weather; rain, wind, and frost, all can have a damaging effect on your home.
Nobody wants to be left with a cold home and expensive repairs, so it’s essential you get your home ready for the winter, and autumn is the perfect time to get it sorted.
Let’s have a look at some of the ways you can get your home prepared for the winter ahead:
Service Your Boiler And Heating System
If you haven’t already had your boiler and heating services earlier in the year, it’s time to get it checked now. Make sure you look for a Gas Safe registered gas engineer to complete it for you. They will record the service in your boiler manual so make sure you have this to hand. There is certainly nothing worst than been without hot water or heating when you are in the middle of winter, so make sure it’s at the top of your list of tasks to complete.
Check Your Roof
It’s a good idea for you to step back from your home and physically view the roof to see if you can spot any damages that need attention. If you spot anything then it could be worth having a closer looking at some ladders but need to make sure it is done safely. Any cracked or tiles need to be replaced. It’s just not worth risking a leak or further damages from damp if you leave them. It’s far easier and cheaper to sort a few cracked tiles than it is the fix damp or replace the entire roof. Not to mention the fact that a strong wind or snow could cause a serious danger to anyone below.
Check Your Chimney
Before you start to get all cozy and snuggle down in front of the open fire it’s important for you to check your chimney. Look for any loose render or crack around the chimney pots and the roof joint. Any heavy rain and winds can cause damages to there areas so you need to ensure it’s safe before use. It’s also worth making sure your chimney is cleaned, getting a professional service is the best way to make sure it’s cleaned properly. Chimney fires are very common in the winter and the last thing you want.
Keep Your Central Heating Switched On
Make sure you set your central heating to a minimum of 14 degrees throughout the winter. It will help to stop frozen pipes and any frost damage. Not to mention it will also help to save on your heating and electric bills. Keeping your home warm saves more money than letting go completely colder and reheating it again. You’re also less likely to feel like you need to have your heating on full whack all the time.
Make Sure Your Windows Are In Good Condition
Have a look at your windows, doors, and frames. You need to make sure that you fill any crack, give them a clean, and paint them. This will help to minimize draughts and damp problems in the winter. Wet weather and extreme temperature can wreak havoc on windows that haven’t been looked after properly. At times, the best option is to get new Tucson Windows Doors to ensure your home is energy efficient and kept warm.
Make Sure Your Pipes Are Warm
You need to keep your wipes warm, therefore you need to apply lagging to any water tanks or pipes that are exposed in areas like garages, lofts, and utility rooms. This is so that you can help prevent the pipes from freezing in harsh weather. If they freeze you risk them bursting and that’s the last thing you need in the winter, no water supply!
Clear Your Gutters
Although it may be one of the last things you feel like doing at the moment, your gutters can become extremely clogged during the autumn from the leaves falling. If it gets too blocked, you will find that it starts to leak into your roof, if you want to avoid this, this only option is to clear them before the bad weather.
These are just a few of the ways you can get your home ready for the winter, there are other things you can do inside too. What are you planning on doing to get your home ready? Please share some of the plans in the comments below.
Please note that some of the links above and below are affiliate links, and at no additional cost to you. All opinions are my own.
