Six ways to weatherproof your house for winter

As the dark nights roll in, and we get ready to hunker down through winter, our homes begin to feel more like sanctuaries.

Our homes protect us, so it’s only fair that we protect them too. Thankfully, when it comes to keeping our homes safe, a few smart fixes can make a big difference.

In this article, we’ll explore practical ways to help keep your haven protected from the elements and the worst of the winter weather.

A well-maintained roof does more than just keep you dry. It can help keep your energy bills down too. Inspect your roof regularly by looking for missing tiles, cracks, moss, signs of damp or internal condensation. If you’re unsure, ask a roof inspector to carry out a full check and recommend any repairs.

Your doors and windows are a vital defence against the cold weather – so keep them in good shape. Check for cracks, leaks, mould or any other issues and make it a priority to get them fixed. Remember, everyday wear and tear isn’t usually covered in policies, so staying on top of maintenance is essential.

If you spot gaps, you can install weatherproofing strips to help seal them up and stop cold air or water sneaking in. If you’re confident with DIY, you can install these yourself. If DIY isn’t for you, and you’d rather leave it to an expert, then a professional will be able to do it for you.

Keeping your property in good shape isn’t just about pride – it’s your responsibility as a policyholder. The trick with home repairs is to deal with them when they are small issues, rather than after they become big problems. Look out for loose handrails, chipped tiles, frayed carpets or uneven floorboards.

Simple additions can make a real difference, like a welcome mat or umbrella stand at the front door. They encourage people to wipe their feet and leave wet gear at the door, keeping your floors dry and damage-free.

Your heating system plays a crucial role in protecting your property during winter. Boilers and radiators need to be in full working order to keep things running smoothly.

Frozen pipes can cause serious damage. In 2023, the average cost of a frozen and burst pipe claim exceeded £17,000¹ - a costly problem that’s easy to avoid.

You should keep your heating on at a minimum temperature to prevent burst pipes and water damage, even when you’re not at home. It may feel like an extra expense, but it’s far cheaper than dealing with the aftermath of a major leak.

Make sure you read your policy terms and conditions, as there may be a requirement to keep your property heated to a certain temperature during the winter months.

It’s simple. Blocked gutters can cause more than just a mess – they can lead to damp, overflow, and when the temperature drops, treacherous icy patches that pose a risk to you and anyone else walking by. A quick clear-out now could save you a lot of hassle later.

Regular gutted cleaning may also be a requirement under your property insurance policy. Make sure you check your policy terms and conditions, so you’re covered.

Faulty junction boxes or damaged wiring can present a fire risk, so make sure to get your electrics checked. Electrical systems need to be inspected regularly in order to stay safe. Only a qualified electrician, with Level 3 NVQ or equivalent, can carry out the tests.

At Everywhen, we understand what the risks that winter brings and how this affects our clients. That’s why we offer home insurance that’s built around your needs. Whether you own your property or rent, we’re here to help.

Ready to protect your home this winter? Explore home insurance options with Everywhen and find cover that works for you.

Consistent with our policy when giving comment and advice on a non-specific basis, we cannot assume legal responsibility for the accuracy of any particular statement. In the case of specific problems, we recommend that professional advice be sought.

Sources:

1: ABI warns of costly burst pipe claims as cold weather hits | Insurance Times