TREAT YOUR HOME THIS CHRISTMAS
13 December 2016
THERE’S a real Festive flavour to Dundee and rural towns across the region.
Christmas lights and decorations are adding a welcome dash of colour on grey, wintry days as shoppers scour the shops for gifts for family and friends.
But this is also a time of year when you should be giving some thought to taking basic steps to ensure your home gets through the winter months unscathed.
As a homeowner, your biggest investment is in the roof over your head. So it pays to look after it.
In addition to decking the halls with boughs of holly and unravelling those pesky tree lights which have been boxed and tucked away in the attic since January, contemplate giving your home a seasonal present.
But first up, make sure your insurance is valid and you haven’t allowed it to lapse.
It’s essential to be adequately protected if the weather turns hostile. Sadly, news reports have already been flagging-up cases across the country of floods impacting on properties.
It’s bad and bad enough having to come to terms with damage caused by a flood or burst pipes without the added trauma of discovering you don’t have the safety net afforded by up to date and comprehensive insurance cover.
At this time of year it’s advisable to wrap up warm – and that tip should also extend to your home.
Modern insulation saves money on energy bills and with an estimated 25% of heat lost through the roof, it makes sense financially to give that part of the property priority status, particularly as you may qualify for grant support and government subsidies.
Internally, is this the time of year when your boiler requires some TLC and perhaps the annual service?
Externally, take a peek at your guttering, down pipes and drains to ensure they are free from debris and autumn leaves. And if you have a garden tap, it might be worth turning it off as temperatures plunge.
Pipes should be protected from frost and foam lagging is inexpensive and effective.
And if your home has a coal fire, give some thought to the chimney, and not just to allow Santa easy access with the Christmas presents!
Incidents of domestic fires are declining thankfully but chimney blazes can occur during the winter months - so get in a professional to give it a seasonal clean.