Make your house winter-ready!

Winters in this country seem to be trending towards milder temperatures. Heavy snowfall last year was limited to Bavaria and Saxony. On the other hand, extreme weather events have become more frequent, so homeowners should definitely be prepared. Cold weather can turn minor damage into major repairs.

The best place to start your house inspection is right at the top: on the roof. If you're an experienced DIYer and have fall protection, you can check for leaks yourself. Are any tiles missing? Are some loose or displaced? It's strategically wise to wait until the autumn storms have given the roof tiles a good shake and done this test.

Roof tiles and gutters.

Missing or damaged roof tiles must be replaced before winter, because once water gets under the underlayment, it will be expensive. Frozen water expands and can cause even small cracks in the roof tiles or damage the insulation. Also check that antennas and, if applicable, snow guards are securely mounted. A professional should maintain your solar panels.

The secure fit of the gutters should also be checked before winter. In autumn, a lot of leaves get caught in them, which absolutely must be removed. Otherwise, the water won't drain properly when the snow melts. Our tip: Installing gutter guards prevents leaves from getting into the downpipes and makes removal quick and easy.

Check the facade.

The next thing you should check is your house's exterior, meaning the facade. If it's damaged, moisture and frost can penetrate the masonry. Be sure to repair any plaster damage and cracks before the first frost causes the plaster to crack further. Once the insulation gets wet, it loses its insulating properties and thermal bridges can form. And while you're outside, don't forget to open the taps on the outdoor faucets so that any remaining water can drain away before the frost sets in.

Are the doors and windows airtight?

On the way inside, it's time to check the windows and doors. Are they closing tightly? Inspect the hinges and the seals between the window sash and frame, and replace the latter if necessary. This will not only save on heating costs but also prevent mold growth caused by condensation.

Have the heating system serviced.

The best time for annual heating system maintenance is just before the onset of winter. Even small adjustments to the settings can save unnecessary costs, such as those caused by an excessively high flow temperature. Remember to also check the radiators and bleed them if necessary.

Home security.

On dark winter days, adequate outdoor lighting can prevent accidents, especially on icy surfaces. Is the (LED) lighting on all paths and stairs around the house bright enough? Bright outdoor lighting not only prevents falls but also deters burglars.

Sources: heimwerker.de, my-hammer.de, heimhelden.de, t-online.de, praxistipps.focus.de, vpb.de