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Privacy NoticeSpring might be on the horizon but with the UK’s February temperatures still dropping below freezing, we’re not out the winter woods quite yet. And with Google searches for “frozen pipes burst” increasing by a staggering 600% over the last couple of months, it’s clear that homeowners are experiencing household problems that could cost thousands to repair. National housebuilder St Modwen Homes has revealed some of the most common yet simple and preventable mistakes homeowners make with their properties in the winter – and what to do to avoid them and get set for a straightforward ease into springtime with not a repair bill in sight.
Save yourself a massive headache and high repair bills with our simple tips
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Winter storms can play havoc with hanging branches so take care of them before they cause issues
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Branching out Trimming overhanging branches on your trees may be a job you’d prefer to avoid in winter. But when winter storms strike, these neglected branches can wreak havoc, causing potentially expensive damage to properties and vehicles. SAVING: ££££+ structural repairs
Ice dams can create multiple structural damage issues to brickwork and your roof
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Keep on top of your gutters Neglecting your gutter and leaving it filled with leaves, branches and debris can lead to ice dams, which can harm your roof and brickwork. Keeping your gutters clear will ensure you avoid detrimental maintenance bills. SAVING: £900 in repairs
Insulate outdoor taps and shut off completely when temperatures really drop to safeguard your home
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Piping… cold Thawing frozen pipes could result in water leaks that could be easily avoided with proper precautions. To help avoid burst pipes, protect any outdoor taps by insulating them or shutting off their water supply completely when the temperature drops to freezing. SAVING: Burst pipe repair £9,300
It might look pretty… until it starts to melt and causes leaks
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Oh snow! Ignoring a build-up of snow and waiting for the thaw could lead to leaks or even structural damage. Keep an eye on your roof in snowy weather, and if you notice the snow starting to accumulate, it’s time to clear the roof. SAVING: Roof repair £5,500
Any higher energy bills could be due to a loss in heat through unknown draughts
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Don’t be draught Draughts around windows and doors can cause significant heat loss, leading to higher energy bills. Draught-proofing your home could save you around £45 a year on your heating bills, so hunt for any cool currents in your home and seal up gaps to help keep the warmth up and your energy costs down. SAVING: Around £45 a year
Don’t forget about protecting your garden friends, you’ll be glad you don’t have to spend a fortune replacing them come springtime
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Don’t leaf these out If you have outdoor plants, don’t forget to protect them from frost. Bring your potted plants indoors or cover them with frost protection fleecing to shield them from freezing temperatures. You will thank yourself when the warmer weather returns. SAVING: £500+ replacementStory SavedYou can find this story in  My Bookmarks.Or by navigating to the user icon in the top right.Follow OK! MagazineFacebookTwitterCommentMore OnInside Homes
