Tips for protecting your home this winter

As we embark on a fresh decade and January draws on, the festivities of the Christmas and New Year period can begin to feel like a distant memory. The drives to and from work are still done in the dark and the temperatures are still bitter, but sadly we no longer have the decorations, presents and general merriment to cheer us as we settle back into a steady routine.

Unfortunately, it’s likely that we must steel ourselves for at least a couple more months of wintry conditions, and there are few things as unpleasant as waking up in or returning to a freezing cold house. With that in mind, what are some sure-fire ways to prevent your home turning into something more akin to an igloo at this time of year?

Insulate your loft

According to the National Energy Foundation, you can save as much as 20% on your energy bill by installing effective loft insulation. By placing the material between the roof joists in your attic, more of the heat rising from your house will get trapped and remain indoors rather than escaping and forcing you to crank up the heating even more, which can prove highly expensive and inefficient.

Bleed your radiators

It may seem like a chore, but bleeding your radiators can also make a huge difference. If they feel hot at the bottom but cold at the top, they will probably need bleeding, which can be done by switching the heating off and then turning the valves with a special key. You’ll need to catch any drips with a rag or in a container and once water begins to flow, you can tighten the valve again.

Check your boiler

The last thing you need when the cold bites is for your boiler to go on the blink. With that in mind, it’s best to be prepared. That means ensuring you have a proper warranty from the likes of Warrantywise, so if anything does go wrong, you’ll be properly covered for any repairs. Even if your boiler shows no signs of being faulty, it’s best to have it thoroughly serviced by a qualified technician, to prevent any potential issues cropping up at the most inopportune moment.

Clear out the gutters

Another relatively grim task – especially in the depths of winter when there’s a biting wind and your hands are almost frozen. However, cleaning any leaves, muck and debris out of your gutters will remove blockages and ensure any rain or snow melt will be diverted away from your roof properly. This will mean you reduce the risk of damp creeping into your ceiling or walls, so get yourself up that ladder!

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