With autumn now upon us, this is the time to make sure that your properties are in tip-top condition for the winter months ahead. While the weather is still relatively mild, now is the time to carry out a few essential maintenance jobs.  Many winter-related disasters can be prevented if people plan ahead in the autumn to protect their properties from the wind, rain and freeing temperatures that the winter may bring. Taking some precautions before the winter weather kicks in and dealing with problems at an early stage can ward off the need for more extensive and expensive repairs later on down the line.

Roofing problems?

If your roof is in need of repair, don’t wait until it starts leaking before you decide to get it fixed. Ignoring roofing problems is a false economy as a small leak can cause a lot of damage if left for any length of time.

After it’s been raining, check for puddles of water, mould or wet insulation in the roof space.  If you find any signs of dampness you’ve probably got a leak. If there’s wetness or damp around pipes or chimney breasts, this is probably due to a damaged flashing. A leak anywhere else in the loft space suggests there is a problem with the roofing material, such as a loose tile.

Some problems can be spotted from the ground: you might be able to see some missing or loose tiles. When it comes to replacing them there’s only one way to do it and that’s calling on the services of a professional roofer to do this for you, GMC can organise visit reports on your behalf, obtaining free estimates and monitoring the job to ensure a quality result. Our tried and trusted contractors will use their expertise to advise if further work is required giving you the full picture of what is happening at the property including a full suite of photographs.

How can you prepare for the Autumn?

By carrying out the following maintenance jobs: 

• Clean out your gutters and make sure downpipes and any outlets are clear of leaves and debris
• Repair any leaking gutters to avoid issues occurring when the temperatures drop in winter.

• Inspect the roof (e.g. carefully from the ground) for any broken, loose or missing slates/tiles/mortar or flashings and watch for any early signs of leaks or condensation on the ceilings, especially at the outer edges of the ceilings.
• Getting your boiler serviced or inspected should always be at the forefront of any autumn preparations as a boiler breakdown can be a very costly experience.  In addition, a well-maintained boiler will burn less fuel so having your boiler checked and your heating system serviced will save money and most importantly, it could potentially avoid a terrible tragedy.
• Vacant properties should have the heating system turned off, the stoptap turned off and the water system fully drained down to prevent any burst pipes.
• Carry out a final grass cut of all lawned areas