Protecting your home from weather damage this autumn and winter

With the cooler weather here, now is the perfect time to think about protecting your home from the seasons that lie ahead. Rain, frost, snow can all wreak havoc on your property if you’re not prepared. Taking proactive steps to safeguard your home can save you time, effort, and money in the long run.

Here are some essential tips to protect your home from weather damage this autumn and winter.

1. Make repairs before things escalate: When it comes to home maintenance, it’s always best to address minor issues before they escalate. Autumn is the ideal time to inspect your property for any signs of wear and tear, such as fine cracks and holes in your walls or brickwork. If you notice any damage, it’s crucial to make repairs now to avoid more significant problems when inclement weather hits. Sandtex® Masonry Filler is a fantastic option for outdoor repairs, offering an easy-to-use solution that’s ideal for filling fine cracks and holes in brick, render, stone, and most other building materials. Plus, it dries to a smooth, sandable finish, making it perfect for prepping surfaces prior to painting.

2. Protect your walls with quality paint: Your home’s exterior walls play a crucial role in protecting against the elements. Applying a high-quality paint like Sandtex® Microseal® Smooth Masonry Paint is an excellent way to ensure your home is ready to face whatever Mother Nature has in store. This microporous paint provides sealing attributes that protect against water ingress, allowing your walls to breathe and moisture to evaporate. The advanced formula shields against mould and algae growth, ensuring your home remains beautiful and in top shape.

One of the standout features of our Microseal Masonry paint is its rainproof in just one hour, which is essential with the unpredictable British weather. Plus, with 15 years of trusted durability, you can rest assured that your home will look better for longer.

3. Use a special formula for brickwork: If your home is brick, apply Sandtex® Brickwork Waterproofer & Protector. This ready-to-use, silicone-based formulation creates a water-repellent barrier on porous surfaces, shielding them from the damaging effects of rain, frost, ice, and snow. The waterproofer dries to form a clear, invisible coating, allowing the surface to retain its natural permeability. This feature enables your walls to breathe and dry out under normal conditions, reducing the likelihood of destructive frost damage.

4. Check your roof and gutters: Don’t forget about your roof and gutters when preparing for winter weather. Clean out leaves and debris from gutters to ensure proper drainage, preventing water from backing up and causing damage to your roof or walls. Inspect shingles for any cracks or missing pieces and replace them as needed. A well-maintained roof is your first line of defense against the elements—the last thing you need during the wet seasons ahead is a leak!

5. Seal windows and doors: Properly sealing your windows and doors is another vital step in protecting your home. Look for gaps or cracks around frames, and use caulk or weatherstripping to fill them. This will help prevent drafts and keep your home warm, while also protecting against moisture penetration.

6. Prepare your garden, too: Lastly, don’t forget about your garden! Trim back any overgrown plants or trees that could potentially damage your home during storms. Ensure that any outdoor furniture is stored properly or protected with suitable covers to prolong its lifespan. Furniture should ideally be kept indoors, or in an elevate area that’s shielded from the elements. Make sure furniture doesn’t touch the ground and use blocks or risers to help with this.

By following these tips and using Sandtex products, you can protect your home from weather damage this autumn and winter. Remember, early preparation is key to ensuring your home stays safe and secure against the elements. For all your home protection needs, visit your local Sandtex stockist today!