As most of us start to feel the chill of the late autumn breeze, now is the time to prepare your home for the cooler conditions of winter. Preparing ahead will not only help you and your family live a little more comfortably, but it may also help you save some money too!
Internal Jobs
Insulation
None of us like sitting at home feeling cold. Insulating your home is one of the best ways to help reduce energy bills whilst providing a bit more comfort. Heat loss from your home happens in all directions – including your windows, doors, floor, walls and roof. To save yourself the wasted energy you pay to keep your home warm this winter, consider a variety of options to protect and insulate your home.
Double Glazing
As energy bills rise, consider the investment of double glazed windows. Double glazing is such an effective method of insulating that it can massively decrease your energy bills. The two panes of glass works as a thermal barrier which helps retain the heat during winter and traps the air of cooling devices during the summer. It is estimated that between 10% to 20% of internal heat is lost during winter through single glazed windows and doors. Whilst 25% to 35% of heat is gained through single glazed windows and doors during the summer.
Talk to your local Hubby about replacing your windows and doors.
If you don’t have the money to replace your windows, you still have plenty of other options available.
Draught-Proofing
An easy and cost effective way of keeping out the cold is by applying weather seals around both your windows and doors. Draughts happen when cracks occur between the window frames and the surrounding walls. To prevent further damage, either a sealant or putty can be used to close these gaps.
You should check your rubber seals around your windows and doors for any damage caused by wear and tear. If you notice any damage, you should replace them immediately. Seals will also provide you with that extra comfort during winter.
If you have any gaps between the bottom of your doors, you can buy either a brush or hinged flap draught excluder. As an alternative option you can always use a “Door Snake”.
Insulate the Roof and Walls
Home insulation is vital if you want to keep the warm air inside your home whilst keeping heating costs down. A well insulated house won’t require the heater to be on all the time. Once the home reaches an ideal temperature, you can turn the heater off and enjoy a warm a cosy home.
The biggest advantage to roof insulation is the amount of money and energy you can save – between 10% to 20% of energy consumption.
Always talk to a professional. Your local Hire A Hubby can advise on what insulation options are available. You want to make sure any insulation installations comply with your state building codes to ensure you have met or exceeded code requirements.
 Rugs and Flooring
Some flooring options may seem perfect for the summer months but terribly cold on the feet during the winter.
There are many options with some fairing better than others depending on climate. From solid timber, vinyl, cork, laminate, natural stone to tiling.
A good quality woollen rug is a cheaper solution to reduce some of the escaping heat from the floor. Woollen rugs are great insulators whilst giving your feet that comfort and cosy feeling. Just make sure the rug is large enough to provide a good barrier between your feet and the floor.
Speak to your local Hubby about what flooring options may be a viable solution for you.
Chimneys
An unused chimney is a common way for heat to escape. If you have a chimney you are not using, you should consider having it capped (if you don’t use it) or install a removable chimney balloon. A removable chimney balloon expands inside the chimney which acts as a protective layer in stopping excess heat loss from escaping.
Additionally, if you have a chimney which you do use, you should have it professionally serviced once a year to reduce the chances of any unwanted fires.
Curtains
Curtains are another simple way of preventing heat loss. You can also purchase year-round curtains that work in both the winter and summer. To help prevent heat loss, there should be at least two layers of fabric between the curtain and the lining.
Ask you local Hubby for a quote to come and install some curtains. They can help save a further 10% of heat loss from your home!
Battery Operated Smoke Alarms
Fires are more common in the colder months of the year. Always check your smoke alarm batteries are in full working order before winter arrives. This is especially important if you have a working fireplace or a woodstove installed in your home.
If you live in a state which legally requires a hardwired smoke alarm, please speak to a qualified electrician.
External Jobs
Gutters
Check your gutters for debris including leaves or any blockages. You want to make sure your gutter system is working at its best performance – especially in these wetter months of the year.
Gutters play a crucial role in protecting your home from the elements. Blocked gutters will retain water during the wetter months and can cause leaks and water damage to your property external walls.
Hire A Hubby have extensive knowledge and experience in dealing with gutters and checking your down-pipes and stormwater drainage to make sure they are clear of blockages.
Backyard
Give your backyard a general clean-up. Rake up fallen leaves and any debris in the yard. Cleaning up the yard is also a great time to place fertiliser down. This will protect the yard from the cooler climate in Australia this winter so that it will flourish when the warmer temperatures come back around. It also makes your yard look nice, without having to do any more work to it in the winter months.
Call Hire A Hubby
Hire A Hubby are happy to come and offer you a winter health check. Give us a call today!
