If you live in a country that experiences inclement weather during winter, you need to be equipped for whatever comes along. Snow, rain, and wind can cause damage to your property – especially if there are maintenance issues that have not been addressed.
By ensuring that your property is in a good state of repair, you will not only protect your family and your home but may also save money in the long run. There are also many other things you can do to make sure you are organized and prepared for this time of year.
Here are 5 things you should do to get your home ready for winter.
Have Your Boiler Serviced
You don’t want any nasty surprises when the time comes for your heating to be needed, so if you haven’t used it in a while, it’s time to get it checked. Having your boiler serviced annually should reduce the chances of it not working or breaking down completely.
Early October is an excellent time to have an engineer come out and give it a once-over. This will provide ample time to have any issues remedied and ensure that it’s in tip-top condition when you need it most.
Also, the best selling pellet stove is a great alternative to traditional heating methods, offering efficient and cost-effective warmth during the colder months. Pellet stove maintenance should also be carried out at this time.
If you have gas heating, you must use a certified gas engineer. They will check everything and issue a certificate confirming that your boiler is in good working order.
Check Pipes, Drains, and Guttering
Leaves and other debris can build up over time and cause issues with drainage, which in turn can cause damage to your property, so you must clear any blockages as soon as possible. You can do this yourself, but if you prefer to have someone do it on your behalf, there are the best plumbing companies in Cincinnati that can help.
Another issue that you may encounter is broken pipes or guttering. If the damage is extensive, you may need to have them replaced, but if it’s minimal, you might be able to use PVC glue to rectify things. Once this is taken care of, it will give you peace of mind that your drainage is in good shape regardless of how much rain comes.
Check Your Windows
Your windows ensure that cold air doesn’t get in and warm air doesn’t escape, so you must check that they are in good shape. Run your hand around the edges of each window pane and check that there are no noticeable draughts. If your windows are double or triple-glazed and the vacuums are compromised, you may notice condensation between the panes.
If you do encounter any issues, talk to a professional about having them fixed. The longer you leave it, the worse the problems may get, so although it may be tempting to leave it another year, it isn’t advisable.
Many people like you change their window dressings in winter, too. Although standard curtains will help keep a room warm, the thermal lining will give an added layer of protection against draughts, so it is something else to consider.
Insulate Your Loft
If your loft insulation is looking a little less robust than it used to, it might be time to have it replaced. Good insulation will stop heat escaping, so new insulation will not only help you stay warm this winter, but it could save you money on heating bills, too.
Insulation comes in standard-width rolls and is readily available in stores and online. All you have to do is calculate how much you need and then unravel it in between the joists in your loft space. Be sure to wear gloves and a mask, as the fibers can hurt your hands and could be ingested, which can be very bad for your lungs. If you need a little help, there are lots of step-by-step guides online that talk you through the process in detail.
Winter Essentials
When colder weather approaches, it’s time to get the winter essentials out. If you have summer duvets, then you probably want to replace them with a higher tog. Extra blankets always come in handy at nighttime or even if you are just lazing around watching TV and want to feel warm and cozy.
If you have kids, it’s worth checking what they need in terms of winter jackets, sweaters, and boots, and it’s always wise to have hats, scarves, and gloves to hand, too. If they dress appropriately, they shouldn’t feel cold and can enjoy having fun in the lovely winter weather.
