The jumpers and winter coats have been dragged from the loft, and the summer clothes and suitcases have been stashed away for another year.
With supermarket shelves stocking up on Halloween, and even (gulp) Christmas decorations, it is time to think about getting your home Autumn ready!
From the décor to the practicalities of keeping warm and dry, there is a lot to think about ahead of the changing of the seasons.
So, we have compiled some useful tips and tricks for getting your home looking and feeling its best ahead of the inevitable upcoming cold snap that us Brits know so well.
- Check your heating system - Before the temperatures drop significantly, have your heating system inspected and serviced by a professional. This includes cleaning or replacing filters, checking for any leaks, and ensuring all components are in working order. A well-maintained heating system will not only keep you warm but also save energy and reduce utility bills.
- Draught-proof your home - Draughty windows allow the cold air to seep in and send your heating bills soaring. If your windows and doors need an upgrade, you can save significantly on your energy bills by replacing rotten old windows with thermally-efficient UPVC or aluminium frames with double or triple glazing. You will feel an instant difference to the cosiness and warmth of your home, and you will add overall value to your property too.
- A new front door – If your door is past its best, it will no doubt be allowing cold air in, and make your home’s entrance feel uninviting and fridge-like, and no-one wants that, do they? If you upgrade your front door to a new UPVC or composite door, you will transform your home’s kerb appeal, and save money on your heating bills, as well as upgrading your property’s security. Find out about our door options here.
- Install a programmable thermostat - A programmable thermostat allows you to set different temperature settings for various times of the day. Lower the temperature while you're away or sleeping and raise it when you're at home. This can lead to substantial energy savings without sacrificing comfort.
- Clean gutters and downpipes - Leaves and debris can clog your gutters, leading to water damage during the winter months. Clean your gutters and ensure downpipes are clear to allow water to flow freely away from your home. If your gutters are in need of a refresh, ask our sales team about our low-maintenance UPVC fascias, soffits and guttering.
- Check your fireplace and chimney - If you have a fireplace or wood burning stove have it inspected and cleaned to ensure it's safe to use. Stock up on firewood if needed, and consider adding a fire screen or glass doors to improve efficiency and safety.
- Check carbon monoxide and smoke detectors - As you're getting your home ready for autumn and winter, it's an excellent time to test your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors. Change the batteries if needed to ensure they're working correctly. Safety should always be a top priority.
- Ask an expert to inspect your roof: Inspect your roof for loose or damaged shingles. Winter weather can be tough on roofs, so any repairs should be addressed before the cold season arrives. Flat roofs that are in need of repair can be quickly and efficiently fixed with EPDM roofs – a weatherproof rubber roofing material. Don’t risk your belonging getting ruined by leaks this winter, ask our Roofs team for more information.
- Decorate for the season: Adding some autumn and winter-themed decorations to your home can create a warm and inviting atmosphere and make it feel instantly cosier. Think autumnal colours – oranges, golds, reds, and seek comfort from a variety of sources including lamps, blankets, candles and scatter cushions. Just changing a white lampshade for a richer colour casts an inviting glow in a room and creates a feeling of warmth.
- Create a cosy ambiance: Finally, embrace the autumn and winter by creating a ‘cosy corner’ by a window where you can enjoy the winter scenery with a good book and a cup of tea. Embrace the changes through your warm double glazing and enjoy the view!