The Met Office weather warnings are in full force this week with heavy snowfall across the UK and while some people may enjoy snow, homeowners should be aware of the considerable risks brought on by a shift in climate.
The study conducted by money.co.uk analysed local authorities across England on average temperature during the coldest month of the year, to reveal the areas where properties are most at risk of cold-weather climate damage in England.
High Peak is the coldest area in England with temperatures during the coldest month of the year around 42% colder than the country’s average. Further countryside locations make up the the top three, with Eden and Pendle in second and third spot.
Severe weather can damage your property in various ways. Windy weather can dislodge roof tiles and crack windows. Cold weather can often cause property damage in the form of frozen pipes and boiler breakdowns. Most home insurance policies cover damage from frozen pipes, however, any damage caused by trying to fix them yourself may not be covered. You may also need boiler insurance if boiler breakdowns are not covered by your home insurance.
The experts at Money.co.uk Mortgages have shared how you can protect your property against cold weather damage, they said, “In cold weather, you can insulate exposed pipes to prevent them from bursting or cracking due to low temperatures, as cracked pipes can be costly to repair.
While foam or rubber sleeves can be attached to pipes to insulate them from cold weather, experts recommend heat tracing. A heat tracing system involves a series of paths that heat up electrically. Using a heat trace system can protect indoor pipes at risk of cracking, including those in cold rooms like attics and basements. It’s also a good idea to fill any cracks in your home that freezing air could enter through.
“In cold, windy weather you can also clean your gutters regularly to prevent ice from forming and consider installing a gutter screen to help the flow of water. Cold weather can cause mould or dampness in your home. Reduce the effects of moisture damage by installing extractor fans, and dehumidifiers and by allowing air to circulate through your home, especially during winter.
“You can protect your home from storms by repairing any broken or loose roof tiles to prevent these from becoming dislodged due to high-speed winds.
“If you tend to your roof regularly, this is a great preventative measure to ensure there are no loose or cracked tiles that could cause damage in the case of a storm. It can also help to fix cracked garden fences, as weakened fences are susceptible to wind damage. If you live in a particularly windy area it might also be a good idea to install storm window shutters. These protect your windows from high wind speeds and loose debris.”
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