PROTECTING YOUR HOME FROM HEAT DAMAGE
As the UK braces for more scorching temperatures this summer, Surewise, a leading specialist home insurance provider, has put together an essential guide to help homeowners protect their properties from heat-related damage.
The comprehensive guide offers expert insights and practical tips on how to keep homes safe and secure in the face of soaring temperatures.
Surewise is offering its expert commentary to UK journalists and is available for interviews to discuss the importance of preparing homes for heatwaves, as well as sharing valuable tips on how to safeguard properties and belongings during these extreme weather conditions.
According to Surewise’s Director, Stuart Bensusan, “Heatwaves can cause significant damage to homes if proper precautions aren’t taken. Our goal is to help homeowners understand the risks and take the necessary steps to protect their homes from heat-related damage. By following our expert advice, homeowners can minimise the risk to their properties and potentially save thousands of pounds in repair costs.”
Repairs & Maintenance Jobs at home To Prevent Damage During A Heat Wave
Inspect Your Roof and Attic
Intense heat can cause your roof to expand and contract, leading to cracks and leaks. This can cause water damage to your home’s interior and can also lead to mould. Plus, your roof and attic can absorb a lot of heat during a heatwave, making your home even hotter. Inspect your roof and attic for any damage or leaks and make necessary repairs. (Check: are you covered if your ceiling caves in?.
Seal Any Leaks
Leaky windows and doors can let hot air into your home, making it harder to keep cool when a heatwave strikes. Check for leaks around your windows and doors and seal them with weather stripping or caulking. Consider installing window film to help block out the sun’s heat.
In addition, the fluctuating temperatures during a heatwave can cause wooden doors and windows to expand and contract, resulting in warping or sticking. This can make it difficult to open or close them properly, and in some cases, the damage may require replacement or repair. Having your windows and doors looked at before a heat wave can prevent worse damage.
Check Your Fans
If you have ceiling or portable fans, ensure they’re in good working order. Clean any dust or debris from the blades and check they’re turning in the right direction (counterclockwise) to help circulate cool air throughout your home.
Maintain Your Garden
Outdoor equipment such as air conditioning units, generators, and lawnmowers can be damaged during a heatwave, so it’s essential to protect them from the heat with covers. What’s more, many homes have paved driveways or garden pathways made of materials like concrete or asphalt. During a heatwave, these surfaces can expand, causing them to crack or buckle – unfortunately there may not be a huge amount you can do to protect this, but it’s likely that already cracked surfaces will suffer worse.
Your garden can also play a role in keeping your home cool during a heatwave. Ensure your trees and shrubs are well-maintained and provide shade to your home. Heat-tolerant plants, such as succulents, require less water and can help cool the air around your home.
Test Your Smoke Alarms and Carbon Monoxide Detectors
During a heatwave, the risk of electrical fires can increase. Ensure your smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors are functioning properly by testing them and replacing batteries if needed. This will help to alert you in case of any fire or dangerous gas leaks. As a side note, excessive heat can cause electrical systems to malfunction or even start a fire. It’s vital to ensure that your electrical systems are properly maintained and that you don’t overload your circuits during a heatwave.
Clean Your Gutters and Downspouts
Clear debris from your gutters and downspouts to ensure proper water flow. Blocked gutters can lead to water damage and leaks during sudden summer storms that may accompany a heatwave. Regular maintenance will help prevent water-related issues during extreme weather conditions.
Inspect and Repair External Shading Devices
Examine any awnings, pergolas, or shade sails for damage, and repair or replace them as needed. These devices help keep your home cool by providing shade to windows, reducing the heat entering your home.
Maintain Outdoor Equipment
Inspect and maintain outdoor equipment such as pool pumps, irrigation systems, and generators. Ensure they are functioning properly, and make any necessary repairs to prevent breakdowns during a heatwave when they might be needed most.
Service Your Electrical System
Hire a professional electrician to inspect and service your home’s electrical system. This can help identify any potential issues, such as overloaded circuits or faulty wiring, that could pose a risk during a heatwave.
Plumbing Issues
Water pipes may be more susceptible to damage from heat waves due to our typically cooler climate in the UK. The extreme heat can cause the ground to shift and put stress on underground pipes, leading to leaks or bursts. Additionally, increased water usage during a heatwave can put extra strain on your plumbing system, causing further damage.
As the UK continues to experience hotter summers, it is more important than ever for homeowners to take preventative measures to protect their home and properties from the damaging effects of heatwaves. Surewise is committed to helping homeowners stay informed and prepared for these extreme weather conditions, offering expert advice and reliable insurance solutions.