ASPECT’s very own Will Davies shares four budget maintenance tricks to prep the home for seasonal changes, but there’s one area readers should NOT scrimp on.
Based on current long-range data, this upcoming autumn and winter is predicted to be dryer and colder than last, increasing risk of snowfall. Will Davies, who manages the UK’s leading independent multi-trade, home and commercial property maintenance firm, ASPECT, urges Brits to take advantage of summer’s end to prep their homes for the coming months.
By taking five low-cost measures, homeowners can cut costs and time later down the line.
- Clean that gutter
As leaves start falling, gutters can get clogged, leading to water build-up and potential damage. Get ahead by cleaning debris from gutters and downspouts to allow proper water drainage. While doing so, inspect for any leaks or damage that could worsen during the rainy season. If homeowners do not clean their gutters this can lead to water ingress and damage of which the cost can run into thousands of pounds.
- Inspect doors and window for openings
Check for gaps and cracks around doors, windows, and other openings that could allow cold air to enter your home and warm air to escape. Seal these areas with weatherstripping or caulking. Additionally, consider adding insulation to the attic or walls to improve energy efficiency. Poor home insulation can result in a 20-40% increase in energy bills.
- Don’t forget about the Garden
When summer ends, it’s easy to forget about the garden but with worsening weather, it’s important to trim back trees and shrubs that could potentially damage the home, Clear dead leaves and debris from the yard to prevent slipping hazards and to maintain the lawn's health. If in possession of a sprinkler system, drain and winterize it to prevent freezing. Preparing your garden properly for winter saves money in the long run. Garden equipment isn't cheap and replacing it every summer can mean you run into hundreds of pounds in costs.
- Now is the time for an exterior paint job
Inspect the home's exterior for any signs of peeling paint, cracks in siding, or other issues. If exterior paintwork is in poor repair this can lead to water ingress and damage from excessive moisture. Cracks, gaps and peeling paint can also contribute to heat loss. Costs of not keeping your exterior in good repair can run into thousands of pounds and addressing these problems before winter can help prevent further damage from cold and wet weather.
- Finally, before the colder weather arrives hire a professional to get your boiler serviced and check the heating system is working efficiently. “With ASPECT boiler services can cost as little £150 +VAT but often homeowners will wait till it’s too late,” Will says.
“When sludge and debris have built up in the boiler’s filter, the heating won’t properly, costing households more on energy bills and the cost of getting it replaced!”
Contact ASPECT to book a boiler service appointment and cut the cost of energy bills this winter. The business prides itself on building trust and loyalty, achieving repeat business from customers who score ASPECT highly in service delivery and after care reviews, repeatedly referring and recommending ASPECT to others.
