The winter cold has already started to make an appearance, with chillier mornings and fog rolling in off the hills. We all know that this weather is only going to get worse as we pass Halloween, so it's time to start thinking about how this colder weather will affect your wooden windows and doors. In our Hinson Custom Made blog this month, we give you the top issues to look out for concerning weather damage to your home exterior and how to try and prevent these issues from becoming worse.
The damage that winter weather can do to your home exterior
When we consider the winter weather - freezing temperatures, snow, rain, hail, biting winds and frost - it's no wonder that the exterior of our home needs protection from it. The winter months have been known to cause some of the biggest home insurance payouts for those who have to make significant repairs after their homes have been damaged.
Repeated hail and high winds can cause cracks to appear on windows and door frames, resulting in cold draughts blowing through the house and a rise in energy bills where you are trying to compensate for the winter air in your home. Persistent heavy rain and snow can result in your wooden windows or doors making cracks wider and causing further water damage to the wood (particularly if you haven't previously sealed or treated it).
Luckily, Hinson Custom Made have some top tips to prepare the exterior of your home for the upcoming onslaught of winter weather that will keep you toasty warm and save money!
Preparing your wooden doors for the winter months
Check your door and its frame for gaps and cracks in the wood. Depending on the age and structure of your home, you may naturally have a slight gap between your door (unless you purchase a wooden door from Hinson as we custom make these to your space). This could lead to cold air flowing freely through your home - definitely something you want to avoid. Why not get a door draught stopper to try and prevent some of that air from coming into your home.
If you haven't invested in a humidifier yet, it may be time to consider one. A humidifier will help maintain a healthy and naturally dryer environment in your home, perfect for wooden doors. Suppose you don't have a tumble dryer and are drying your clothes inside. In that case, this will also lead to moisture in the air and having a humidifier will resolve this problem, preventing your doors from cracking and the increase of cold and flu-like symptoms!
Doors naturally expand and contract during the different seasons, which can, in turn, lead to warping, cracks and gaps. Ensure these are resolved before the winter weather starts to prevent further damage and rising costs. If your door is more difficult to open and close, it may be time to consider changing your front door, and that's where Hinson Custom Made can help.
Preparing your wooden windows for the winter months
Check on your windows as soon as possible. You are looking for any gaps in the wooden casing that could cause water damage, leaks and draughts to find their way into your cosy living space. Ensure you check both the inside and outside of the window. Our top tip for checking inside is to light a candle and place this in your windowsill when it's windy outside - if you see the flame flickering (and you're not causing it), you most probably have a gap somewhere that is letting the cold air through.
It's essential to treat your wooden windows regularly to prevent the casing from rotting and ceasing to be effective. Failing to resolve this could lead to the complete window having to be replaced and could also lead to potentially harmful mould finding its way into your home. Hinson Custom Made can support you with all your wood treating needs, so give us a call and speak to an expert if you think it's high time your windows are re-treated.
If your windows aren't closing fully, it may be time to consider speaking to a Hinson expert. Naturally, if you cannot close your windows during adverse weather, you will end up with cold air and water making its way through onto your windowsill. This could be a simple fix from the common issue of expansion and contraction during the summer months. However, it's always best for a qualified expert to take a look.
Hinson Custom Made can help you to protect your home this winter
Our master craftsmen have been designing, creating and installing beautiful wooden doors and windows for many homes across the UK since 1984. As a family-run business, we know how important it is to have doors and windows that are stunning and practical in design, built to last and cope with heavy footfall and usage.
If you are looking to upgrade your windows and doors before the last of the sun (albeit cold sunshine!), give Hinson Custom Made a call today and book a free quotation, or visit our showroom to see what we can achieve with the perfect wood.
