Attention UK Homeowners: Essential Winter Maintenance

We all complain about the weather in the UK, which is more than a little unpredictable and the harsh winter can cause serious damage to a bricks-and-mortar building. The so-called weather experts are telling us this will be a wet and cold winter, with several periods of sub-zero temperatures, and with that in mind, here are a few things that you can do to protect your home from the harsh elements.

• Building Inspection – The damp proofing cost in Richmond is reasonable and if damp is an issue, you’d best call in the experts. The inspection would incorporate the roof, the foundations, electrical and water system and you would be issued with a detailed report, with perhaps a few recommendations.
• Cleaning Out Guttering & Downpipes – Wet leaves can quickly cause a blockage and that would result in water cascading down the exterior walls and you certainly don’t want that! If you are not happy getting out the ladder, your local roofing company would do this, along with a thorough roof inspection, which should be carried out in the autumn, prior to the arrival of the cold weather.
• Mortar Joints – Repointing is often required and your local builder is the person to contact if you need brickwork remedial work. If damp seems to be present, call out a local damp proofing specialist and see what they have to say.
• Driveway – If you have a tarmac surface, look for signs of cracking and weathering and if there are signs, ask a local driveway specialist to quote for recovering, or invest in block paving, which is a permanent solution.

Armed with the above knowledge, you can prepare your home for the coming winter months.