Summer has officially drawn to a close, (though some might argue we didn’t have a summer in 2024!), which means it’s time to start look towards the chillier season. With the first hints of autumn starting to show, now is the perfect time to focus on some important home maintenance to ensure it’s safe, secure, and weatherproof for the months ahead.
From checking seals and cleaning hinges to upgrading your locks, taking some time for maintenance now will pay off when the rain days become shorter, and you just don’t fancy wrestling with your guttering in the dark. To help you get on top of your home maintenance, we’ve put together a few essentials you should do to prepare your home for the coming season.
Clear out the gutters
One of the easiest yet most effective maintenance tasks is clearing out your gutters. Over the summer months, leaves, twigs, and debris can build up in your gutters, causing blockages. If left unchecked, clogged gutters can lead to water overflowing and potentially damaging your roof, walls, and even your home’s foundation.
Gutters are designed to direct rainwater away from your home, but if they’re blocked, you could end up with leaks, damp patches, plus the dreaded mould inside your house. So, grab a sturdy ladder, some gloves, and get to work removing any debris. If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself or you don’t have a suitable ladder, it might be worth calling a professional to ensure everything is flowing freely.
If your gutters are looking a little tired or have been damaged, it might be better to replace them. At Birmingham Glass, we can assess your current gutters and install new soffit, fascia and gutters if needed. Just pop our team a message to get a quote!
Check and reseal your doors and windows
This can be an easy one to forget but as the weather cools down, it’s a good idea to check the seals around your doors and windows. Over time, seals can degrade, letting in drafts and moisture. This not only makes your home less energy efficient but can also cause problems like damp and mould in the long run.
Take a walk around your home and inspect the rubber seals around all doors and windows. If you notice any cracking, shrinking, or missing sections, it’s time to reseal. You can buy replacement seals at most DIY stores and fit them yourself or hire a professional if you want peace of mind. By resealing now, you’ll ensure your home stays warm and dry, saving on energy bills and preventing any unpleasant surprises later on.
To make getting the supplies you need as easy as possible, our trade counter sells the silicone required for sealing. However, if you don’t fancy DIYing it or you just lack the time, our maintenance division is always happy to come over, check what’s needed and quote for the work.
Upgrade to toughened glass
Windows are often the first point of vulnerability in a home. If your windows are older or have standard glass, you might want to consider upgrading to toughened glass. As its name suggests, this type of glass is much more resistant to impact, making it a great choice if security is a big concern. However, rather than upgrading to toughened glass alone, consider also opting for rated glass. While toughened glass enhances security, rated glass is designed to be more energy efficient, which can help reduce your energy bills over time.
It also offers better insulation, meaning your home will retain more heat during the colder months, and it can reduce outside noise – perfect if you live in a busy area. While the initial investment may seem steep, the long-term benefits for both safety and energy efficiency are well worth it. We offer a range of glazing options, and if you’re not sure what the best choice for your home is, our friendly team can talk you through it.
Pay attention to your locks
As the nights get darker earlier, it’s important to make sure your home is as secure as possible. Start by checking all your locks, including those on windows, doors, and side entrances. Are they all functioning properly? Do you feel they offer sufficient security?
If your locks are old or just don’t feel as tough as they used to, it might be time to upgrade them. One great option is to install 3 star cylinder on your doors. These are more secure than standard locks because they make it much harder for burglars to force their way in. They offer three locking points, making it nearly impossible to breach the door with a single push or pull. At Birmingham Glass, all our doors and windows are supplied with a Yale Mantis 3 hook High Security Multipoint Locking System so you can be assured that you’re investing in quality and security.
Inspect door seals and hinges
While checking your locks, don’t forget about the condition of your doors themselves. Door seals play a really important role in keeping drafts and moisture out of your home. Similar to window seals, these can wear down over time, leading to higher energy costs and possible water damage.
Inspect the seals at the bottom and sides of your doors. If you feel a noticeable draft when standing near them, it’s time for a replacement. Most door seals are inexpensive and can easily be fitted by yourself with a bit of patience.
And don’t overlook your door hinges, either. Hinges that haven’t been cleaned or lubricated in a while can cause the door to sag, making it more difficult to close securely. This could compromise the efficiency of your locks and seals. To take care of this, give your hinges a good clean, removing any built-up grime (an old toothbrush is great for this… just make sure it’s definitely an old one!), and apply some lubricant to ensure they’re smooth and quiet.
Window locks matter too
While we’ve already discussed the importance of upgrading your window glass, it’s also worth double checking your window locks. Windows are often a first target for burglars, especially if they’re left unlocked or have weak mechanisms.
Check that all your windows have functioning locks and consider upgrading to more secure versions if necessary. You could install additional locks, especially on ground floor windows or those in easily accessible areas. Adding locks to every window in your home might feel excessive, but it’s a worthwhile investment in terms of both security and peace of mind.
If your windows are starting to look a bit tired, it’s worth replacing them before the colder months really kick in. We offer a wide range of windows, from casement to sash. Whether you’re looking for simple and efficient, or want something unique that’ll really make a statement, we can help!
Final thoughts
We get it – end-of-summer maintenance may not be the most exciting task on your to-do list, but it’s essential for keeping your home safe, secure, and cosy during the autumn and winter months. A little effort now can save you time, money, and stress when the darker nights settle in.
Want to upgrade your doors and windows this winter? Pop down to our showroom to have a friendly chat with our team or request a free no-obligation quote.
