How to winterproof your home and garden
Winter is well and truly here, and the chill is settling in. Here are some simple tips for preparing your home and garden for the coldest weather, to keep you warm without sending your energy bills through the roof.
In these colder months we make sure to keep ourselves cosy, from wrapping in extra layers to making our favourite hearty meals. But there are also steps you can take to get your home winter-ready.
While new builds homes already have the advantage of being more energy-efficient than older properties, thanks to highly efficient insulation, heating systems and appliances, there are a few additional precautions that will stand you in good stead for winter.
From radiators to gutters, here are six handy tips to keep your home and garden in the best shape to tackle the cold – and save you some money on your energy bills.
1. Isolate your outside tap
If you have an outside tap, it’s important to isolate it during winter to prevent it from freezing, which could lead to serious leaks occurring. To do this in a Persimmon home, turn the isolation valve which is usually found under the kitchen sink, in a utility room or garage. Then open the outdoor tap to allow any water to drain out and prevent it from freezing within the pipes.
2. Have your boiler serviced
One of the benefits of buying a new build is that you get a brand new boiler to efficiently heat your home. Don’t forget, however, than your first boiler service must be conducted within 12 months of installation (your first year in your home) to meet the terms of your warranty.
After this, you should then have it serviced every 12 months to ensure you don’t void the manufacturer’s warranty.
3. Bleed radiators
To make sure your radiators carry on working efficiently throughout the winter, it’s important to bleed them every now and then. This quick process gets rid of any trapped air that’s stopping warm water circulating and heating your home properly. Turn the heating off before you begin, and remember to check your boiler pressure afterwards.
4. Clean your gutters
Blustery autumn weather can cause leaves, moss, and other debris to gather in your gutters. This might cause them to block, potentially leading to leaks, flooding and damp in your home. Clearing your gutters and checking for any blockages is part of the maintenance of any home, including new builds, and can save you hassle in the long run.
5. Protect outdoor plants
Plenty of garden plants need some extra TLC when it comes to the colder months. Native trees and shrubs should be able to handle the weather, and some short-lived perennials may need to be grow again from seed. However, tender plants such as agapanthus, olive trees and large tree ferns will need to be moved somewhere more sheltered if possible, or be wrapped in fleece.
6. Cover and secure garden furniture
Outdoor furniture, barbecues and other garden accessories are susceptible to wear and damage in winter, and could also pose a hazard in extreme winds. It’s always a good idea to cover any garden furniture or move it to a more sheltered area of the garden (or garage) if you’re able to, and secure anything which might become lose and blow over.
By taking these quick and simple steps, you and your home should be on track for a cosy and energy-efficient winter!