7 ways to ready your property for winter

Follow these pointers to ensure that when it comes to protecting your property, winter is like water off a duck's back.

Clean your gutters

You could leave this one until winter is close. When your deciduous trees have thrown everything they can at your gutters, get up there and clean them out. 

Blocked gutters mean rainwater has to go somewhere else, potentially damaging your home or pathways.

If you haven’t already, introduce gutter guards. They’re inexpensive and provide all year round peace of mind.

Get fired up

There’s nothing like a roaring open fire so now is the time to get that woodpile sorted. 

First off, make sure it is dry and will stay that way when persistent rain becomes the norm. 

Stacking your wood neatly, safely and in the dry, not only ensures a warm home come June, July and August, it also makes for an attractive rustic outdoor aesthetic.

Test your smoke detectors

With the joy of a cheery winter fire (and sometimes even electric or gas heating) there is the risk of fire. 

Head up that ladder or send someone else up on your behalf instead. Push the test button and if it doesn’t give you a start, then replace the batteries.

This simple action can save lives. 

Cover your outdoor furniture

OK, so you can’t bring your patio furniture in from the cold but you can at least make sure it’s dressed for the weather. 

Tip: cover your outdoor settings when it’s dry to avoid actually trapping moisture under the coverings.

Ever wondered the difference between your steel and stainless steel or aluminium furniture? Leave them both out and unprotected over the rainy season and you’ll definitely spot the difference. 

Even powder coated steel has limited resistance to the elements, while stainless and aluminium pieces are impervious.

Of course, if your al fresco furniture has padded coverings make sure they are brought into storage.

Get your pool ready for its extended time off

Make sure your pool is shipshape and ready for winter in terms of everything from debris-free water to effective, smooth-running filtration. 

If you need any upkeep, this time of year may find pool contractors more accessible as they can get pretty busy come late winter-springtime.

Paint and seal any exposed exterior wood

Your deck finishes may be all about resisting the elements but chances are your sills etc. are made of less sturdy stock. 

All of the wood trim on the exterior of your home needs to be protected from the elements so take the time to get painting or sealing.

Check your heating and air conditioning

Nothing lasts quite for ever and most heating and cooling systems have a lifespan of under or around 15 years.

It can be less time or longer, and either way effective maintenance definitely plays a part in its longevity.

Before winter arrives, take the time to change your filters, or ideally have your system checked out by a reputable HVAC contractor.

Far better to get this sorted before the weather turns cold.

Story by: Trendsideas