8 Things that Could Spell Disaster for Your Home This Winter
Winter is the season of cosy fires, hot chocolate… and, if you’re not careful, a series of home disasters that could make even the worst episode of Changing Rooms (smashed teapots anyone) seem like a walk in the park on a warm summer’s day.
Sound more like a festive nightmare than a Christmas miracle? Here are some potential causes of winter-based home disasters that you need to be aware of so you can (hopefully) prevent them from ruining your year.
1. Overgrown Trees
Those overgrown trees in your garden might look pretty under a blanket of snow, but they’re, so very often, nothing more than accidents waiting to happen. Heavy snowfall or strong winds can turn those branches into battering rams aimed at your windows or roof. Smashed windows for New Year? No thanks! Luckily for you, a good tree surgeon and a bit of trimming can prevent a lot of drama.
2. Frozen Pipes
Frozen pipes are like those unwanted winter houseguests. They show up unannounced, cause a mess, and leave you with a hefty plumbing bill. This is why you are going to want to make an effort to insulate your pipes and keep your heating at a consistent temperature this winter, in order to avoid this particularly chilly catastrophe. Because burst pipes are about as fun as stepping on a Lego barefoot.
3. Gutter Blockages
Gutters clogged with leaves and debris might not seem liek such a big deal, but actually, they can lead to ice dams, which are essentially mini glaciers on your roof that prevent proper drainage from taking place. As you have probably guessed, this can cause water to seep under your shingles and into your home, leading to the kind of indoor water feature nobody wants.
4. Poor Insulation
If your home is about as well insulated as a pair of lacy knickers, you’re in for a chilly time. Poor insulation means higher heating bills and a home that feels like an igloo. Invest in good insulation – your toes and wallet will thank you.
5. Neglected Heating Systems: A Cold Betrayal
Your heating system is your best friend in winter. Neglecting it is like ignoring a friend’s texts – eventually, they’ll give up on you. Get your heating system serviced before the cold sets in. Nobody wants their boiler to go kaput in the middle of a snowstorm.
6. Roof Disrepair
A roof in disrepair is a disaster in waiting. Missing or damaged shingles can lead to leaks, water damage, and a free indoor shower you never asked for. Get your roof checked and repaired if needed – it’s like an umbrella for your house.
7. Unattended Chimneys: The Sooty Time Bomb
If you’re lucky enough to have a fireplace, remember that an unattended chimney can lead to a buildup of soot and creosote, which is basically like setting the stage for a chimney fire. Get it cleaned regularly. Think of it as a spa day for your chimney.
8. Inadequate Ventilation
Homes that are battened down for winter without adequate ventilation can become breeding grounds for mould. Let your house breathe a little, even when it’s cold outside. A bit of fresh air never hurt anyone (just wear an extra jumper).
Winter woes don’t have to be yours if you take note of the above issues and do what you can to correct them should they rear their head, and let’s face it, none of us want our mid-winters to be bleak!