Getting Your Home Winter Ready

As the evenings grow longer and a gentle chill starts creeping in, now’s the perfect time to prepare your home for the colder months ahead. A few simple checks and small tasks now can make all the difference when winter really sets in, helping to keep things cosy, energy efficient and safe for you and your family.

Look After Your Heating System

Make sure your boiler is in good shape. Give it a quick health check or book a service if needed, and keep an eye on its pressure. Bleeding your radiators helps release trapped air so every room warms evenly and efficiently. If you have a smart or programmable thermostat, now is a great opportunity to set up a schedule that keeps things warm when you need it without wasting energy.

Seal Up Draughts and Add Insulation

Drafts are one of the easiest ways heat disappears. Check your windows and doors for any gaps and seal them using weatherstripping or a draught excluder. In the loft, top up insulation if needed. Do the same for exposed pipes to help retain heat and reduce the risk of freezing. If your home has trickle vents, make sure they are clean and working so your home stays ventilated even when everything is closed up for winter.

Maintain Gutters, Roof and Exterior

Clearing leaves and debris from gutters now prevents water build-up and potential damage later. While you are there, take a moment to look over your roof, checking for any lifted or missing tiles and ensuring flashing is secure. Inspect downpipes too, making sure they are not blocked or loose.

Plan for Winter Surprises

Power cuts or frozen pipes are always more common in winter, so it is wise to have an emergency kit to hand. Keep together blankets, a torch, a shovel and a small low-energy heater if you have space. Test your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors and replace batteries if needed. With heating systems working harder at this time of year, safety is especially important.

Make Your Home Cosy and Inviting

Once the practical jobs are done, it is time to add the touches that make a house feel warm and welcoming. Layer rugs on hard floors, hang thicker curtains, and bring in soft throws and cushions to make living spaces feel snug. Consider adding warm lighting through table and floor lamps to create a calming and cosy evening atmosphere.

To discover more about different seasonal interior design tips, please see our other blogs.