Preparing your home for the winter

Winter will soon be upon us, with the days getting colder and the dark night’s drawing in. Preparing for the winter is essential to minimize the chances of anything going wrong and help improve a potential buyer’s impression of your home during a viewing.

1. Check your boiler is functioning at its best
   A poorly maintained boiler wastes energy. According to Energy Saving Trust, a well maintained boiler saves approximately £235 a year and not only this, but finding that your boiler doesn’t work when you need it most can cause you serious problems. Also, a potential buyer may ask when your boiler was last serviced. Being prepared for a question like this will help improve their impression of your home.
2. Keep your pipes toasty
   There’s a method called ‘Lag’ which is where you wrap your pipes in foam to ensure that during the winter months, your pipes don’t burst due to rapid freezing and thawing.
3. Check your gutters and drains
   During the autumn months, leaves can collect in gutters and drains which lead to blockages and overflowing so it’s essential to clear them regularly as overflows can lead to damp walls.
4. Keep your paths cleared
   When a potential buyer comes to view your home, it will always help boost your homes kerb appeal by having clear paths. Not only this, but if it’s very cold and ice builds up then there will be increased risk of slipping.
5. Keep your heating on before a viewing
   Put yourself in your buyer’s shoes, would you appreciate walking into a house that feels cold? Keeping your house warm (But not too warm!) during a viewing will improve your potential buyer’s impression of your home and create a warm, cosy environment.
6. Ensure your home is insulated
   It’s estimated that some 20% of the heat that escapes from your home does so through your windows. By installing new double glazed PVCu windows, not only will you improve the energy efficiency of your home but you will also add considerable value. Other options to consider are loft and cavity wall insulation.
7. Bleed your radiators
   Trapped air or gas prevents hot water from heating your radiator fully meaning that your home is not being heated efficiently. Luckily, bleeding radiators is a simple job which can be done by you.
8. Keep windows and doors clean
   During the winter months, rainy weather means your windows and doors are more likely to become dirty. By keeping the glass and frame clean improves natural lighting and adds kerb appeal when potential buyers come to view your home.
9. Mood lighting
   You want to have lighting which is appropriate to the room. For example, in the living room and bedrooms try turning on lamps as this creates a cosy atmosphere. Also, a roaring fire creates a more welcoming feel especially during the winter.

Do you need help with any general maintenance jobs? We can help. We have a team of full time, experienced trade’s people who have worked in the industry for a good number of years and are CRB checked. Get in contact with us today to discuss your requirements.