How to winter-proof your house

As winter takes its toll, it’s getting increasingly harder to wake up in the mornings. The idea of leaving the safe, cozy confines of bed and stepping into the crisp morning air has us cowering deeper into our sheets. Luckily, we’ve got some steps for winter-proofing your home.

Check for cracks in glass and sliding windows and doors.

Looking around the room everything may appear normal, but at a closer glance you may notice tiny cracks in the windows and doors. Those little cracks are letting icy winds through and letting heat escape! Try to patch these up as soon as you can to keep the warmth inside your home.

Get your insulation inspected

Are you frustrated because your house never stays warm? Do you resort to wrapping yourself in a cocoon of blankets just to feel your toes? There may be a problem with your insulation. It is common for insulation to change over time and it’s important that you hire a professional to conduct regular inspections. Having frequent insulation checks can also help you save on your energy bill.

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If you’ve got a fireplace, get your flue professionally inspected.

The outside your chimney may appear in good condition, but what’s on the inside? Your flue might be the reason cold air is spreading through your house. Make your home warm again! Hire a professional to see to any necessary repairs.

Prune and trim any trees with branches that could break off and damage your house in strong winds.

Winter doesn’t just bring the cold, it also brings heavy rain and strong winds. It’s important to identify any branches that could snap off and damage your home in the case of extreme weather. It may be worth hiring a gardener to come past the house and trim any trees at risk in your garden.

Clean out any blocked gutters

Autumn is a double-edged sword. While the changing of the leaves is nothing short of picturesque, the way the leaves fall and clog our gutters is anything but. Gutters are designed to prevent rain water from entering the house. When they’re blocked by leaves, water can begin to enter your house and cause serious damage to your property.

Luckily, AAMI’s here to help you prepare your home for winter. AAMI’s Home and Contents Insurance covers you if your home, garage or shed is damaged by the harsh winter weather. Find out more about AAMI's Home and Contents Insurance.

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Insurance is issued by AAI Limited ABN 48 005 297 807 AFSL 230859 (AAI) trading as AAMI. Read the relevant Product Disclosure Statement before buying this insurance. The Target Market Determination is also available. This advice has been prepared without taking into account your particular objectives, financial situations or needs, so you should consider whether it is appropriate for you before acting on it.