We’ve had one of the hottest summers to date this year but winter is just around the corner and it’s time to start getting ready for those colder months. Getting ahead of your winter preparations not only means that you’re ready for whatever weather is in store but could also save you some serious money.
Keeping warm and dry is a priority for us all during the winter period so we’ve made a list of some improvements that you can make before the colder season really bites. Take our advice so that you can focus on enjoying wintertime with your family!
Exterior
With the cost-of-living crisis in the UK escalating, you want to be economical with your energy bills. Checking the exterior of your home for any damage can save you from putting on the heating prematurely and keep your home warm and cosy.
Check for crumbling brickwork, missing or broken roof tiles, and ill-fitting window and door seals and get them repaired. You could use your savings or an emergency fund to get these done before the temperature drops.
The boiler
Being left without hot water or heating is a disaster during the winter months, especially when you’ve got little ones at home. There are some signs that you need a new boiler for which you can look for yourself or you can hire a professional to come and give it a service.
This will give you the confidence that your boiler will keep you and your family warm all winter long and save you from costly emergency boiler repairs just before Christmas.
Insulation
Inefficient insulation is one of the main reasons why houses lose heat, specifically through the walls and roof. Making sure that you have quality insulation in your attic and around your window frames can save you money on your bills by keeping the heat for which you’re paying securely inside.
While the initial cost of insulating your home may seem steep, you’ll make back the money in a few years just through lower energy bills. It’s better to be safe than sorry and it’s well worth the investment.
Pipes
The cold weather can wreak havoc on the piping in your home and flooding damage from frozen or burst pipes is the last thing you need in the colder months. The clean-up can cost thousands of pounds compared to the cost of having them insulated, which can start from as little as £20.
This is one of the biggest problems that people face with their plumbing during the winter months so getting ahead of potential disaster is a smart idea. After all, it’s a small sacrifice for a happy and dry winter.