Is your house ready for winter? Tips and tricks for winter.

The frosty season puts your home to the test

Old Man Winter puts properties to the test every year. Winter may seem far away, but weather experts are predicting a very cold November . What can you do to ensure your house withstands icy nights and gets through the winter unscathed?

First, focus on the roof – also to prevent injuries. The storms at the end of March, especially Storm Niklas, may have loosened tiles. Are any solar panels intact? Also check that the snow guard is still securely fastened.

Clear the gutters of leaves and moss to prevent overflowing. This will also prevent injuries from falling icicles. Drain the water from the downpipe to prevent it from bursting, and empty the rain barrel.

Next, inspect your house facade. Repair any cracks with sealant to prevent moisture from accumulating in the masonry. This will also prevent mold growth.

During its dreary, gray days, autumn often brings us heavy rainfall. To keep your basement dry, it's advisable to clear the adjacent drain of leaves. Rinse with tap water.

To protect outdoor water pipes from freezing, first shut off the water supply and then open the outdoor tap. This allows any remaining water to drain away, as frozen water can damage pipes and conduits. Finally, turn the tap slightly closed, without shutting it off completely.

Check the heating

There are also a few things to do inside the house to ensure you stay warm and comfortable throughout the winter. Check if all radiators are getting warm. If not, or only insufficiently warm, you should bleed the pipes. It's especially important to have older heating systems inspected by a professional before winter sets in. Optimizing the flow temperature will also save on energy costs.

To ensure the cold stays out, it's advisable to clean the window seals and lubricate them, for example with a glycerin-based care stick. This will keep the rubber flexible.