As we reach the last two months of 2018, the sub-zero temperatures and frosty mornings have made a return, and aren’t planning on going anywhere for the next few months. It’s the Winter season, after all, that’s why it’s time to start thinking about how to protect your home from any potential damage and cold the weather may bring.

That’s why we have collected 10 easy ways you can prepare your home for the Winter…

Have your heating properly serviced

There would be nothing worse than having to survive the cold in your own home just because you forgot one simple job; having your routine maintenance check. Having one each year (preferably just before the start of Autumn) will help ensure your heating is running efficiently and safely. Doing this will not only save you from wearing your coat indoors but will keep you prepped for next year’s weather too.

Clean out your gutters

Clogged gutters prevent the draining of raining and even melted snow which can result in damage and household leaks. Using a supportive ladder, safely remove any debris such as leaves, dirt, sticks or any obstructions from the gutters. It may be a good idea to have someone at the bottom of the ladder for extra support, as this can be dangerous as a one-man duty. 

Tidy up your exterior

As it’s still Autumn, your garden is probably filled with leaves and overgrown weeds, and you are probably thinking – Oh, the snow will just cover it, right? Well, when Spring 2019 hits, you are left with an unorganised mess! Therefore, start planning for Spring early – trim the hedges, rake those leaves, get rid of those weeds, plant bulbs and fertilise the lawn, it will save you a lot of time and maintenance next year. 

Clean out the shed

As Summer comes to an end you will need space to store all of your seasonal items till next year. Before it gets too cold it may be a good idea to organise and clean out your shed I.e. removing any pointless clutter, getting out your Winter items and then storing away your Summer furniture, removing any liquids that may freeze or tools that might rust. 

Invest in some insulation

We don’t just mean a woolly jumper; If it comes to it, it may be necessary to invest in some good loft and wall insulation to keep the house warm and less energy used. In fact, about a quarter of the heat in your house is lost through the roof, meaning more energy and money is being wasted. Additionally, these instalments may cost money, but they will save you in the long run, keeping you and your household warm for the Winter. 

Stock up on your warm goods

Winter
Winter Season

This point might be the most appealing, but stocking up on things like hot chocolate and warm treats will definitely improve the quality of those Winter nights. It is the best part of Winter after all – cosying up on the sofa with blankets and a hot chocolate, knowing you aren’t outside in the abominable weather conditions is the best feeling ever!

Cover those gaps

In particular parts of your home, such as windows and doors, are sneaky entry points for those chilly Winter breezes, which create a very uncomfortable, cold atmosphere for your home. There are plenty of ways you can solve this issue; by checking the edges of your doors and windows for draughts, then either sealing your gaps with self-adhesive strips or investing in one of those draught excluders (pillow-like products that sit in front of your door).

Store away those Winter shoes

Usually, when you enter a home, you will find a place to leave or store your shoes so you don’t bring in any snow or earth through the house. If you don’t own one already, it’s highly suggested that you do as it makes the house a lot neater. On the other hand, if you already own one, be sure to remove any summer shoes and replace them with your Winter boots, wellies or any other suitable footwear you might need.

Stock up on firewood

Winter
Winter Season

If you own a fireplace or some sort of fire source, it is probably a good idea you start stocking up on things like firewood and matches as preparation. One of the best scenarios of Winter is, in fact, sitting by the fire, as the heat provides you with huge amounts of comfort in your own home. In addition to this, make sure you are storing the fire essentials safely away from your children and not in harm’s way.

Have a preparation kit by your door

If you leave for work relatively early in the Winter mornings, you would understand us when we say you have to defrost your vehicle before leaving your driveway. Therefore, to save you some time in the morning, it might be a good idea to have a preparation kit by your door ready for your assistance. By “preparation kit”, we mean tools and essentials you need in cases of emergency, such as a jug and a de-icer etc. It keeps you prepared in your home for the Winter. 

Thanks for reading.