Last winter saw extreme weather across the board. From the ‘Beast from the East’ to Storm Caroline, there were plenty of gusty gales and freezing snowfall to keep us on our toes.
As the wintry weather begins to creep in once again and the cold snap makes its return, it’s time to start planning for all eventualities. Winter-proofing your home now before the extreme weather conditions can do any damage can help to save on both money and heartache in the long run. Here are some ways to prepare your property for the worst of the weather.
Insure Your Home
One of the best ways to give yourself peace of mind when the extreme weather hits is to make sure you have the best home insurance. Check your current policy thoroughly and update it where necessary. By doing this, you can make sure accidental damage is included in your cover. If you think you’ll find more comprehensive cover elsewhere, shop around to find the provider that ticks all the boxes.
Cut the Trees
Should you have trees or hedges close to the house, trim them down. Long branches can hit windows in high winds and any unsteady bushes can topple. Keeping on top of excess tree limbs can prevent damage to your home and any nearby buildings.
Keep Gutters Clean
Make sure any rainwater is flowing away from the building by keeping your gutters clear of debris and your downpipe facing away from the property. Also, when checking the gutters for blockages, make sure they are secured to the roof as, if they are loose, they could be blown away from their fastenings and swing into the windows in high winds.
Check the Roof
In adverse weather, the roof bears the brunt of the strong gusts and icy conditions. Like the gutters, regular assessments twice a year can mean the simple replacement of any loose slates or shingles, and ultimately prevent a costly full replacement.
Bleed the Radiators
By bleeding your radiators, you can ensure your home is properly heated. If any are feeling colder at the top than the bottom, bleed them so that you can release the trapped air. Turn your boiler off before bleeding them and use a bleed key to help circulate the air.
Seal Doors and Windows
Invest in draught-excluding doors and windows to prevent strong winds, rain and flood water getting through. Ensuring you have windows and doors with a sealant can really help to protect these entry points to your home. In addition, thicker glass is more likely to withstand any flying debris that hits it.
Is your property prepped for the colder, more extreme weather? What are your top tips for protecting your home?
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