How to prepare your home for autumn
As the warm summer days give way to the crisp breeze of autumn, it’s time to prepare your home and garden for the changing season. Not only is autumn the perfect time to enjoy the splendour of falling leaves and cosy nights by the fire, but it’s also the season to ensure your home is equipped to handle the upcoming cold weather.
Below, I’ve summarised just a few of the things you can do to prepare your home for autumn. I’ve considered pests, weather damage and home insurance to help you look after your home during any cold spells.
1. Weatherproofing
Windows and Doors: Draughts can not only make your home feel colder but can also inflate your heating bills. To keep the heat in, seal any gaps around windows and doors using weather stripping or caulk. If your windows are old or single-glazed, consider using insulating window film or even think about upgrading your windows to double-glazing. You’d be surprised how much you could save on your energy bills, so it would be an investment.
Roof and Gutters: Contact a professional to take care of your roof, gutters, and windows to keep your home cosy and energy-efficient for the upcoming season. By clearing gutters and downspouts of any debris, the water can flow freely, as standing water can lead to damage and unwanted leaks. While you’re up there, check your roof for any loose or missing shingles. We had some of our ridge tiles replaced last year, and wouldn’t have known they were loose if our roof cleaner hadn’t alerted us.
Pipes: To prevent frozen or burst pipes in colder temperatures, insulate any exposed plumbing. If you have outdoor taps, consider turning off the water to these and draining them.
2. Pest Control
Seal Entry Points: As temperatures drop, pests such as mice, rats, and spiders look for warmer places to dwell. To prevent them making a cosy home, seal cracks and holes in your home’s exterior. Pay close attention to areas where utility pipes enter.
Store Food Properly: Keep all food, including pet food, in airtight containers. This reduces the likelihood of attracting pests.
Regular Inspection: Check areas you may not go as often, like your loft, for signs of bat, bird, or bee infestations. If you find anything, consider using safe and effective DIY pest control treatments yourself, before calling in a professional exterminator.
3. Outdoor Preparations
Gardening: Trim back any overgrown trees or shrubs, especially if they’re close to the house. This could prevent branches and other debris from hitting your house in a storm or during high winds. Planting bulbs for the next spring and mulching can also be beneficial during this time.
Outdoor Furniture and Equipment: Clean and store your outdoor furniture. You may also want to clean and cover your lawnmower once you’ve done the final cut for winter, as you may not need it until spring.
4. Heating Systems
Chimney and Fireplace: Get your boiler inspected, or even get its yearly service completed before winter hits. If you have a fireplace, ensure the chimney is clean and free from blockages. Keep flammable materials away from both these heating sources.
Detectors: With increased indoor heating comes the risk of carbon monoxide. Ensure your carbon monoxide and smoke detectors are in working order, replacing batteries if needed.
5. Home Insurance
Review Your Policy: Autumn is a great time to review your home insurance policy. Ensure you’re covered for common autumn and winter claims, like roof damage from accumulated snow or burst pipes.
Document Your Home: Take photos of your home’s interior and exterior. This provides a visual record, making the claims process easier if damage occurs. You’ll have a good before and after to show them should you need it.
Consider Additional Coverages: If you live in an area prone to floods, standard home insurance might not cover flood damage. Inquire about additional policies and expensive items too (e.g. those that you bought for more than £1,500 as these may not be covered on your standard policy).
Preparing your home for autumn is not just about embracing the aesthetic beauty of the season; it’s also about ensuring safety and efficiency. By following the steps above, you can enjoy a warm, cosy, and secure environment as you watch the leaves fall and the world transition into winter.
