Winterising might be far from your thoughts, as we have been basking in relatively warm November temperatures; but frost and snow may be just around the corner. Mike Williams in our Property Team has provided some timely guidance to prepare our churches and other buildings for chilly weather.
With the Winter fast approaching now is a good time to carry out some simple building checks. Checking your buildings now can help to avoid costly and disruptive repairs when the worst of the winter weather sets in.
Prevent burst or frozen pipes
- Set your home heating to maintain a temperature of at least 15 degrees Celsius.
- Keep pipes well maintained and ensure that pipe work, cisterns and tanks in unheated areas like lofts, basements and outbuildings are well insulated. If you find exposed pipes, insulate them with waterproof lagging.
- Make sure you know where your stopcocks are and check that they work.
- Isolate and drain down outside taps and consider protecting them from frost damage using insulated covers.
Central heating
- Ensure your heating boiler is regularly serviced to ensure it is operating efficiently and safely.
- Bleed radiators and ensure your system is operating at the correct pressure.
Check your roof
- Loose tiles or slates can easily become dislodged during high winds and storms and this can lead to damage to the fabric of the building.
- Arrange repairs now to avoid a bigger problem later.
Rainwater goods, gullies and drains
- Ensure that gutters, gullies and downpipes are clear of leaves and debris. Blocked and overflowing rainwater goods can cause dampness to masonry walls and damage plaster and paintwork.
Fencing
- Check fence posts and panels and carry out necessary stabilising works to ensure they can withstand the winter winds.
Pathways
- Clear paths of fallen leaves to minimise the risk of slips.
- In snowy conditions spread salt or sand on the cleared area to stop black ice from forming. Ordinary table or dishwasher salt works well.
Security
- Shorter days mean you’ll rely more on exterior lights for safety and security. Make sure lights are working and consider installing motion-sensor lighting near entrances or walkways.
- If you’re going away ask friends or neighbours to keep an eye on your property, especially over the Christmas period. If you're away overnight, leave the heating on at a low level.
- Avoid sharing your travel plans on social media as you never know who could be reading.
- Install a light timer to give the impression that your property is occupied.
The Property Team is always willing to provide advice about these and other important buildings issues!
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