Winter is often seen as a quieter time for home projects, but December and January can be some of the best months to tackle home improvements. For homeowners looking to make the most of the colder season, winter presents unique opportunities for specific upgrades and necessary maintenance. In this guide, we’ll explore why winter can be an ideal time to invest in improvements to your windows, doors, and conservatories, along with essential maintenance tasks that ensure your home stays comfortable, energy-efficient, and in top shape all season long.
1. Improving Energy Efficiency During the Coldest Months
As temperatures drop, maintaining a warm and energy-efficient home becomes crucial. Windows, doors, and conservatories play a vital role in keeping the cold out and the warmth in. If you’ve noticed draughts, condensation, or a chill around older windows and doors, winter is an excellent time to consider replacements or upgrades. New energy-efficient windows and doors help to reduce heat loss, leading to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living environment. Modern designs now come with advanced glazing and sealing technologies, ensuring that heat remains inside your home where it belongs.
Window and Door Checks
Check for Draughts: Inspect windows and doors for any signs of draughts. Even minor leaks can let warm air escape and cold air enter, impacting your heating costs at a time when energy costs are rising.
Inspect Seals: Look around window and door edges to check if the seals are cracked or peeling. Replace or add new caulking where necessary to prevent air leaks.
Clean and Lubricate Hardware: Winter is an ideal time to clean hinges, locks, and handles on doors and windows. A little maintenance can extend their life and keep them working smoothly.
2. Winter: The Perfect Time for Conservatory Improvements
Conservatories add value to any home, providing a beautiful, light-filled space that can be enjoyed year-round. It is no surprise that people often refer to it as their favourite room of the house. However, winter can expose weaknesses in older conservatories, such as poor insulation or inadequate roofing materials. Upgrading your conservatory’s glazing, insulation, or roofing can enhance its usability during colder months, ensuring it remains a comfortable extension of your home all year round. Glevum offers various options, from double-glazed windows to modern conservatory roofing solutions, to keep your conservatory warm in winter.
Conservatory Checks and Maintenance
Inspect the Roof for Leaks: Heavy winter rains can reveal any vulnerabilities in conservatory roofing. Check for leaks and, if needed, schedule repairs to prevent further issues.
Clean and Clear Gutters: Leaves and debris can accumulate in gutters, leading to blockages. Regular gutter maintenance is essential to prevent water from seeping into your conservatory structure.
Assess Insulation Quality: Consider upgrading to more modern energy efficient glazing or a solid roof or adding blinds if your conservatory feels too cold.
3. Winter Maintenance for Home Exterior and Structure
Winter weather can take a toll on your home’s exterior, making December and January a great time for preventive maintenance to protect your property from the elements. By conducting thorough inspections and minor repairs now, you can avoid costly damages and major repairs later.
Exterior Checks and Maintenance
Inspect Roof Tiles: Look for loose or damaged tiles, as they can let water seep into your home. Even small repairs now can prevent costly water damage.
Check for Moisture and Mould: Dampness and mould can become an issue during winter. Inspect the walls, especially around windows and doors, for any signs of moisture build-up, and consider investing in a dehumidifier if necessary.
4. Simple Indoor Upgrades That Make a Big Difference in Winter
Beyond larger projects, winter is a fantastic time for interior improvements that can make your home feel warmer and more inviting. Small adjustments, like adding insulation, upgrading lighting, and refreshing interiors, can transform your living space and enhance comfort through the colder months.
Indoor Upgrades
Add or Upgrade Insulation: Improving insulation in areas like the attic can help keep your home warmer and more energy efficient. This is especially important in older homes that may have insufficient insulation.
Install Smart Thermostats: These devices allow you to control heating more precisely, keeping your home at an optimal temperature while helping you save on energy costs. It also means you can avoid heating your home when you are not there.
Refresh Interior Paint or Décor: Winter provides an opportunity to refresh your home’s interior. Adding a new coat of paint or updating soft furnishings can create a cozy, warm atmosphere, making winter days more enjoyable.
5. Winter Safety Checks to Protect Your Home
Finally, keeping your home safe during winter is crucial. Freezing temperatures and unpredictable weather can present unique risks, so winter is the time to ensure your property is as safe as possible.
Safety Checks
Test Smoke and Carbon Monoxide Alarms: Ensure all alarms are in working order and replace batteries if necessary. With windows closed and heating on, these detectors play a critical role in keeping your home safe. It is estimated that a staggering near 700,000 homes in the UK have a non-working smoke alarm
Inspect Heating Systems: Check that your boiler, furnace, or heating system is operating efficiently. Routine maintenance can help avoid breakdowns in the coldest months. A boiler’s flame should burn blue. If it’s yellow, it could indicate that carbon monoxide is being produced. Carbon monoxide is a colourless and odourless gas that can be difficult to detect.
Clear Paths and Driveways: Snow and ice can create slip hazards. Keep outdoor pathways clear and consider using grit or sand on icy patches to prevent accidents.
Embrace Winter as a Time for Home Improvements
While it might not be what everybody regards as the traditional time to tackle home projects, December and January are ideal months to take stock, make improvements, and prepare your home for the year ahead. Whether it’s installing new energy-efficient windows, upgrading your conservatory, or carrying out essential maintenance, winter offers the perfect conditions for a range of home improvements.
At Glevum Windows, Doors and Conservatories, we’re ready to help you make the most of the winter months. Visit our website to request a home visit or contact us on 0800 332255 to discuss how we can assist with your home improvement goals and keep your property comfortable, efficient, and beautiful all year round.