The cold, winter months are upon us once again, which means you’ll need to start preparing your home for the potentially bad weather. Storms, snow, and plummeting temperatures can all cause damage to our most precious assets; here are some ways you can prepare for most meteorological eventualities.
Check your roof for leaks
Although a roof can be expensive to fix, it could cost far more if loose tiles aren’t replaced prior to harsh weather. A leaky roof can cause water damage, both to your home and possessions, that may cost thousands of pounds to fix, so get an expert in to check your roof before winter sets in.
Cover outside pipes
If you have water pipes running from your home, make sure they’re covered with a material that will insulate them from freezing temperatures. In some cases, you may need special insulating sleeves or tape. This is particularly important on outdoor fittings, as well as those in unheated areas of your home. If left exposed, your pipes could freeze and burst – a big problem if they run through walls or floors.
Clear guttering
Make sure gutters are clear of leaves and other debris so rainwater can flow freely. Otherwise, you run the risk of water overflowing into your home, which can lead to expensive repairs. Consider hiring a professional, or clearing gutters yourself on a regular basis.
Secure your garden
In high winds, your garden is potentially full of missiles. Take loose pots and decorations inside, and tether down anything that can’t be stored elsewhere. Keep your eye on the weather forecast so that you have plenty of warning of impending high winds.
Insure your home
There are some weather events that we simply can’t prepare for, and this is where home (and contents) insurance comes into its own. Check that your policy is up-to-date and covers you for events such as floods and storm damage.