Coorie in and get stuck into those carbs. Winter does have its charms, and we’re here with a few tips on how to get your house ready for the winter months. A warm home can be an efficient home, and a decluttered home is also a blessing when you’re spending more time in it because there’s not much else to do. Our very own Dumfries Self Storage is worth investigating if you do have stuff to store post declutter.
Not a draft idea
Your grandparents had the right idea with those fluffy snake draft excluders. Sealing up gaps under doors is the first step to minimising drafts, likewise hanging a plush velvet curtain behind the front door, especially if it leads directly off the street. You’re not heating the street, remember, so keeping warm air on your side of the glass is essential. Aside from the snake, other acceptable draft-proofing methods include: other draft excluders, weatherstripping, or caulking to block those pesky spots where cold air infiltrates. Letterboxes and chimneys are likewise open invitations to cold air.
Patio furniture or summer clothes taking up space indoors? Get them to Dumfries Self Storage and enjoy a clutter-free, cosy winter home.
Insulate to hibernate
Hibernating is easier in a well-insulated toasty home, and easier on your energy bills. Check your attic and walls for insulation issues. If your insulation is old and patchy, why not top it up? Likewise, water pipe insulation in unheated areas like the garage or under floorboards, prevents them from freezing and bursting during icier snaps.
If your car’s been slowly edged out taking shelter in the garage, it might be time to move the offending items that you can’t bear to part with just now to Dumfries Self Storage.
Boiler alert
Before the bleak mid-winter arrives, it’s probably a good idea to check that your heating system is up to the job. How about squeezing in a boiler or heat pump service? Change filters, bleed radiators, and check for any leaks or inefficiencies. If your system has seen better days, it might be time to bite the bullet or face a teeth-chattering future.
Gutter wouldn’t melt
Dead leaves in your gutters won’t melt away. They clog things up good and proper. Get the gutters cleaned or risk storing up a load of problems from water overflow, because this can lead to more serious structural issues in your roof, walls, and foundations. And while you’re up there, why not check the roof tiles too!
Scottish windows
Natural light is a key mood booster and it can be lacking in Scotland in winter. Yank those curtains right back, buff up the windows, invest in lightbox, and hang more mirrors. You might consider insulating film on windows in rooms that aren’t being used, to further prevent heat loss. Windowsills cluttered with knick-knacks can be annoying. Store them with us.
Stats the way to do it
Smart thermostats put you in control of the temperature of your home, allowing you to adjust it based on when you’re in the house. Set it lower when you’re asleep or out and enjoy the savings you make.
Don’t soft pedal on the soft furnishings
Soft furnishings enhance the snug factor and you have our permission to go to town. Layer up like made with thick blankets, throws, and rugs to amp up the comfort factor, trap the heat and get all cosy with your snuggle puss.
Sherlock Gnomes
Be your very own garden detective. Start by storing away gnomes, outdoor furniture, garden tools, and hoses—especially anything that could crack or rust due to cold weather exposure. Drain and coil your hoses to prevent them from freezing and splitting. You should also insulate any outdoor taps to avoid frost damage.
If you’re running low on space in your shed, make Dumfries Self Storage your next call
Safe and sound
You’ll also want to check your smoke and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they’re working properly. If you use a fireplace or wood burner, now’s the time to stockpile wood and make sure your chimney is clean and ready for action.
Keep a snow shovel and some salt or sand handy for de-icing pathways. If you’ve already filled your garage with other essentials, a little self-storage space could help keep things organised while ensuring you’re ready for anything.
If you need more space to keep everything ship shape, remember that Dumfries Self Storage is always here to help.