Winter is coming… and so are the draughts, leaks, and “Dad, why is it so cold in here?” moments.
Before you know it, the heating is on full blast, the bills are climbing, and your to-do list is longer than your arm.
But a few simple DIY fixes now can save you time, money, and stress when the cold weather hits.
So grab your toolkit (or at least a strong cup of tea) and tackle these easy pre-winter jobs before it gets too chilly.
1. Stop the draughts
If your house feels like it is auditioning to be a wind tunnel, you probably have a few sneaky gaps letting the cold air in.
Check around doors, windows, and letterboxes for draughts.
Simple fixes like self-adhesive draught strips, door brushes, or even a rolled-up towel at the bottom of a door can make a big difference.
It takes ten minutes, costs next to nothing, and helps your home feel instantly warmer.
2. Bleed the radiators
If your radiators are warm at the bottom but cold at the top, it means air is trapped inside. That air stops them heating efficiently — and wastes money.
Grab a radiator key (about £1 from any DIY shop) and a towel. Turn off the heating, open the valve slightly, and wait until water starts to drip out.
Close it again and turn the heating back on. Your home will heat up faster and your boiler will thank you.
3. Clear out the gutters
It is nobody’s favourite job, but blocked gutters cause real problems in winter. Leaves and debris stop water flowing properly, leading to leaks and damp walls.
If it is safe to do so, climb up and scoop out the muck, or use a hose to flush it through.
If ladders are not your thing, there are plenty of affordable gutter cleaning services that will do it for you.
4. Check the roof (from the ground)
You do not need to climb up there, but a quick visual check from the garden or pavement can reveal loose tiles, sagging gutters, or signs of wear.
Spotting a small issue now can save you a big bill later.
If anything looks worrying, call a professional before winter weather makes it worse.
5. Insulate what you can
Heat loves to escape through lofts, pipes, and walls.
Adding a bit of insulation is one of the best ways to cut costs long term.
Check your loft insulation, if it is thin or patchy, it might be time to top it up.
Wrap exposed pipes with foam lagging to prevent freezing, especially in colder parts of the house.
It is a small job with a big payoff.
6. Service the boiler
A boiler breakdown in December is no one’s idea of fun.
If you have not had yours serviced in the last year, book it now. Regular servicing keeps it efficient and helps catch small problems before they turn into major repairs.
Also check your thermostat batteries and make sure the heating timer is set correctly after the clocks changed.
7. Test your smoke and carbon monoxide alarms
These little devices are easy to forget, but they are essential.
Press the test button on each alarm to make sure it is working, and replace any old batteries.
If you do not have a carbon monoxide detector, now is the time to get one. It could literally save your family’s life.
8. Tidy up the garden
Outdoor spaces need love before winter too.
Trim back overgrown plants, secure loose fences, and clear leaves off paths and decking to prevent slippery surfaces.
If you have garden furniture, store it away or cover it to protect it from frost and rain.
Final thought
You do not have to be a DIY expert to get your home winter ready, just a little proactive.
A few simple checks now can save you hundreds later, and help your family stay warm and safe when the weather turns.
So put the kettle on, roll up your sleeves, and get ahead of winter before it gets the best of you.
Because nothing feels more satisfying than beating the cold at its own game.
