If you are a home owner you will probably already know how important it is to ensure that your home is as safe and secure from the elements already. If you are just starting out in embarking on your adventure when it comes to ensuring that your home is safe from the effects of the famous Great British weather then you are sure to find our tips and tricks useful. Often we are not really aware of how the elements can play havoc with the condition of our homes and our finances when it comes to fix things until the worst happens. We are here to ensure that any element-related problems are nipped in the bud.
Damp proofing
Damp proofing applies to the variety of methods and procedures you can take to prevent damp related issues in your property through the application of damp proofing treatments. Damp proofing is the best deterrent for the long term battle against moisture within the home and helps to prevent mould, mildew and moisture decay. It could even go as far as ensuring that your home does not suffer from structural damage and prevent the decay of timber.
Protect your pipework
In the UK we can suffer from rapidly tumbling temperatures which can cause problems with your pipes. We all know about the fact that water expands when it freezes, which is why it is so important that any pipes in your house are prevented from bursting and cracking as a result of this. In the winter be sure to:
- Protect any pipes that run along unheated areas in your home such as in the garage or basement
- Disconnect outdoor hoses and cover taps
- Drain any water that exists in outdoor taps and sprinkler systems
Check your fireplace
As winter approaches, perhaps one of the best things you can look forward to if you are the proud owner of a fireplace is the fact that you can light your fire and bathe in its warm glow. However prior to this you will really need to make sure that the area is clean and free from any unexpected bugs etc. Hire a professional to give your chimney and fireplace a good look in. This will ensure that leftover soot and other rubbish will not cause your house to catch fire. Make sure that you also close the flue so that you don’t feel cold air flowing in to your house too.
Seal up door and windows
Regardless of the condition and age of your home, it is important to keep a close eye on the small gaps between your windows and doors to ensure that your house is safe from water and the cold. By easily and cheaply applying a sealant to your windows and doors you will not only prevent the heat from escaping from your house but may also find that you will end up paying less on your energy bills as a result as well!
While we have touched upon only a handful of important things that all home owners should consider to keep their properties safe from the elements, there is a lot more that can be done. By performing regular checks on every part of your home and dealing with problems that may occur as soon as possible you will find that keeping a warm, safe and secure house is easy when the colder months approach. Remember that while your home insurance will be able to cover you in the event of an emergency, it will not help if your home is neglected.
