Winter is well and truly here. The mornings are dark, the nights are darker, and then weather is unpredictable. One minute icy cold with glorious sunshine the next a winter storm could be brewing. It is important that at this time of year we do what we can to prepare our homes for bad weather. It not only avoids damage and keeps your home safe, but also makes life that little bit easier for you. With that in mind, here are some of the things that you can do.
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Clean patios and pathways
Some of the things that can often be forgotten when it comes to preparing our homes for winter is the patios and pathways. We will regularly walk on these but yet in the winter, they can become a hazard if you are not careful. This is when pressure washing them can clean them up and avoid moss and other slippery substances from on them, which could cause you to slip and injure yourself. It also helps to keep them looking great in the winter ready for the spring and summer ahead.
Cover exposed pipework
Another thing that can get overlooked is exposed pipework. Often we all have pipes that will enter our homes, but are at risk of freezing in low temperatures. This can then cause issues with things such as water getting in and out of our homes. If you are not careful, those pipes might even burst as the temperature warms up and cause all sorts of issues. Insulating the pipes with an extra layer of foam around the exterior could help the inside to stay that extra few degrees warmer.
Get your home warm this winter
There is no denying that during the winter months you want to be warm and toasty in your home. So you may want to think about how you can ensure that you can do that. It might be worth getting the heating checked over to make sure that the boiler and radiators are working as they should be. It may also be worth insulating areas of your home such as the attic space or even the walls if you can. This helps to keep the heat in your home.
Make the interiors cosy
Winter is a time of year to get cosy and stay indoors, so you may want to think about getting those interiors matching your mood. Pull out all the blankets, have all the cushions and generally enjoy being inside. Light candles, enjoy all of the comfort food and embrace the up and coming festive season. There is a lot to feel happy about at this time of year.
Clear gutters and drains
Last of all, the yard may need some attention but more specifically the gutters and drains may need to be looked at before the bad weather really sets in. A lot of rain can cause extra pressure on your drainage system, so make sure that the gutters and drains are clear and ready for when the bad weather comes your way.
Let’s hope these tips help you when it comes to preparing your home for winter.
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This is an excellent article for people who split their time between addresses. If you have a home located in a place where they get a winter season, but you spend those winter months in a warmer locale, following these tips can save you a lot of money. Outdoor faucets can be a real problem if they aren’t winterized properly. Not only can they freeze and potentially burst, but by the time you return home, the broken pipe could have leaked into your home and potentially cause you a mold problem to take care of as well.