Winter weather can make existing problems worse. Issues that started out as wear and tear can quickly become more serious. We’ve compiled a winter checklist to help you avoid some common pitfalls this season.
- Why winter maintenance is so important
- What to look for outside
- What to look for inside
- What to do once you've done your checks
Why winter maintenance is so important
British winters can be particularly harsh, with water posing risks to our homes. Leaks, damp patches, excess condensation - they're all problems that can spring up during the colder, wetter seasons. But what can you do to avoid water risks to your home this winter?
First of all, it helps to know what you’re dealing with. Scout around your home at the start of each season. Take notes when you find any potential issues before they arise. Noticed water building up in places it shouldn’t? Take a note. Spotted daylight coming through the roof in your attic. Note that down too.
What to look for outside
When you’re looking for potential issues, here are some things you’ll need to check on the outside of your home. Recognising risks and acting on them before winter sets in can help you avoid water damage to the structure of your home.
- Missing tiles
Got a tile missing or askew? This could let rainwater into your loft space. Not only could water getting in damage your contents, but if it goes un-noticed, you could end up with damp and structural problems in the future. - Loose or blocked guttering
Damaged or clogged gutters can direct rainwater into the foundations of your walls. This could cause a whole host of issues, from flooded basements to structural problems. - Overhanging trees
Leaf litter can block drains and gutters but heavy, broken branches could also cause significant damage to your roof and windows if caught up in a storm.
What to look for inside
It’s best to inspect your water supply lines and household appliances before temperatures drop. This will help you get ahead of any potential issues and remedy them, before they become a problem.
- Water supply pipes
Check areas where water supply lines are found, like the basement, attic, garage, and kitchen. Insulating your pipes with a simple pipe sleeve will slow down the rate pipes go from hot to cold, which can help stop cracks and leaks. This will help stop pipes freezing. - Appliances
Check your radiators, boiler, drains, and pipes for any signs of wear and tear, leaks, or poor performance. It might be worth having a service before the winter sets in.
What to do once you've done your checks
If you spot anything amiss, it’s best to call in a professional to put them right, before the weather worsens.
Many home insurance policies won’t cover damage caused by wear and tear or lack of proper maintenance. So, remedying issues before they get worse might just save you problems in the future.
