Getting Your Home Ready for Winter: Your Trusted Partner in Property Maintenance and Cleaning Excellence

Getting your home ready for winter is essential. It’s all about preventing damage, improving energy efficiency, and ensuring you stay warm and safe. Here’s a practical checklist of what to do before winter hits:

🏠 Home Winter Prep Checklist

🔧 1. Inspect and Service the Heating System

• Book a boiler or furnace service, especially if it hasn't been done in the last year.

• Bleed radiators to improve efficiency.

• Test the thermostat.

  
  

✅ Tip: Check if your heating is working properly before the cold hits—so you’re not stuck waiting for a repair!

🚪 2. Seal Drafts and Insulate

• Check around windows, doors, and letterboxes for drafts.

• Use weather stripping, door draught excluders, or silicone sealant.

• Consider adding thermal curtains.

  
  

✅ Tip: A rolled-up towel at the bottom of a door can be a quick fix in a pinch.

🧰 3. Protect Pipes from Freezing

• Lag exposed pipes, especially in lofts, basements, or garages.

• Check insulation around the water tank.

• Know where your stopcock is in case of burst pipes.

  
  

✅ Tip: Set your heating to a low constant temperature, even when away, to prevent freezing.

💧 4. Clean Gutters and Drains

• Remove leaves and debris to prevent blockages and water damage.

• Ensure downpipes drain away from the property.

  
  

✅ Blocked gutters can lead to frozen overflow, resulting in damp or damage to your walls and roof.

🪵 5. Check the Roof and Loft

• Look for loose, cracked, or missing tiles.

• Ensure loft insulation is in place (recommended: 270mm depth).

• Seal any small gaps where heat might escape.

  
  

Preparing Your Home for Winter: Additional Steps

🔥 6. Chimney and Fireplace Check

• If you have a wood-burning stove or fireplace, have the chimney swept.

• Stock up on dry firewood or solid fuel.

  
  

🌨 7. Stock Emergency Supplies

• Keep rock salt or grit for icy paths and driveways.

• Check torches, candles, and batteries in case of power cuts.

• Consider a portable heater or generator as backup.

  
  

🚗 8. Exterior & Garden Prep

• Disconnect and store hoses; turn off outdoor taps.

• Cover or store garden furniture.

• Trim tree branches away from the house.

• Secure fencing and shed roofs.

  
  

🪟 9. Check Windows and Ventilation

• Clean windows inside and out to maximise winter daylight.

• Ensure extractor fans and vents are clear to prevent condensation and mould.

  
  

🧯 10. Safety Essentials

• Test smoke and carbon monoxide alarms.

• Replace batteries if needed.

• Have an escape plan in case of fire or power outage.

  
  

Why Winter Preparation Matters

Preparing your home for winter is not just about comfort; it’s about safety and efficiency. A well-prepared home can save you money on energy bills and prevent costly repairs. By taking these steps, you can enjoy a warm, safe, and worry-free winter.

Need Assistance?

If you need help with any of the tasks above, reach out today! Call us at 07356 298879 or email ajproperty_services@outlook.com. We're here to support you in making your home winter-ready.