The winter months can bring harsh conditions that can damage your home if you’re not prepared. From heavy snow and ice to strong winds and freezing temperatures, it’s important to take steps to protect your property from the elements. This guide provides key tips to help safeguard your home this winter.
1. Have Your Roof Cleaned
Keeping your roof clear of leaves, moss, and debris is vital for avoiding damage from heavy snow and ice build-up. Use a stiff broom to sweep away any loose leaves or branches. Pay particular attention to valleys and joints where snow can accumulate. Check gutters and downpipes are clear of blockages so melting snow and ice can drain freely. Consider hiring a professional roof cleaning Essex company to power wash your roof if moss has taken hold. A clean, clear roof is less likely to be weighed down and damaged by frozen precipitation.
2. Insulating Pipes
Exposed water pipes are prone to freezing and bursting in sub-zero temperatures. Insulate pipes in unheated areas like lofts, garages, and under floorboards. Use specific pipe insulation sleeves or waterproof tape wrapped in layers around the pipes. Seal any gaps so cold air can’t penetrate. Know where your stopcock is located so you can turn off the water supply quickly if a pipe does freeze or split.
3. Draught Proofing
Draughty windows, doors, chimneys, and cracks let cold air penetrate your home, increasing your heating costs. Draught proof by applying silicone sealant, fitting brush strips around doors and letterboxes, and adding chimney balloons. Get professional help with blown cavity wall insulation if needed. Staying draught-free keeps your home warmer and protects pipes from freezing.
4. Protect Water Tanks
External water tanks and hot water cylinders are at risk of freezing in icy conditions. Insulate tanks and cylinders fully, including lids and piping. An indoor cylinder can be protected by ensuring your boiler maintains a constant background heat. Lagging outdoor tanks may not be enough during sustained sub-zero temperatures, so turn off the water supply and drain the tank.
5. Tree Pruning
Heavy snowfall and icy winds can cause tree branches to break and damage property. Inspect trees and prune potentially problematic branches. Remove any overhanging branches above your home or power lines. Be careful not to cut too severely – consult a tree surgeon if in doubt. Pruning before winter storms hit keeps your trees healthy and reduces the risk of damage.
6. Check Foundations
Freezing conditions can distort and crack weaker areas of your property’s foundations. Inspect for any existing cracks or flaws and repoint masonry if needed. Good drainage is also important – clear soakaways to prevent water pooling around foundations. Keep an eye out for future issues and address them as soon as possible to stop the damage from spreading.
Preparing your home thoroughly for winter weather is key to minimising seasonal damage. Focus on roof maintenance, insulation, draught proofing, and securing loose items around your property. Also, maintain gutters and check foundations. Addressing potential problem areas in advance will help safeguard your home this winter.
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