Is your home winter ready?
Preventing damage before it happens is the key to keeping your home safe and comfortable this winter.
Outside
Take action around your garden, driveway and exterior to avoid winter weather related damage.
- Trim Overgrown Branches: Dead or overhanging branches can fall into gutters, causing blockages. Snow can accumulate on them, leading to broken branches that may damage anything beneath.
- Clear Gutters and Drains Regularly: Blocked gutters and drains can cause water to back up, leading to leaks through your roof or down the walls. If the water freezes, the added weight can strain plastic gutters and pipes, potentially causing them to crack or break.
- Check and Repair the Roof: Secure any loose aerials or satellite dishes, especially if strong winds are expected. Inspect for cracked or missing tiles, as these can allow water to seep in, freeze and cause further damage.
Inside
Once you’ve addressed the outdoor tasks, focus on these essential indoor areas to prepare for winter.
- Seal Drafts Around Doors and Windows: Check for gaps that allow drafts to enter and seal them with weather-stripping or caulk. If you don’t already have double-glazing, consider installing it for added warmth and efficiency.
- Insulate Your Walls and Loft: Proper cavity wall insulation can keep your home warmer and reduce heating costs. Around one-third of heat escapes through the walls, so check if your home is adequately insulated, particularly in unheated spaces like the loft.
- Inspect the Fireplace: If you have a working fireplace, make sure it’s clean and fully operational by scheduling an inspection. A blocked chimney can lead to dangerous drafts or fire hazards.
Frozen Pipe Prevention
- Insulate Your Loft: Use high-quality lagging, especially around exposed pipes and water tanks, to prevent freezing.
- Open the Loft Hatch Occasionally: Opening the loft hatch allows warmer air from the house to circulate around the pipes, helping prevent freezing.
- Replace Washer on Dripping Taps: Fixing leaky faucets prevents water from accumulating in the pipes, reducing the risk of freezing.
- Keep Heating On, Even Low: Don’t turn off your heating completely during the winter. Maintain a low temperature and consider using frost protection thermostats on heaters.
If a Pipe Freezes (but doesn’t burst)
- Protect your Home: Move furniture, carpets and electrical devices away from the frozen pipes to minimize damage if it bursts.
- Open the Nearest Tap: This helps water flow more easily once the pipe starts to thaw.
- Thaw the Pipe Safely: Use a warm water bottle, hot cloths or a hairdryer to gently thaw the frozen section. Start at the end nearest the tap and move towards the frozen area. Keep all electrical devices well away from any water.
Important Reminder:
If you are unsure of uncomfortable with any of these tasks, seek professional help to ensure your safety and avoid injury.