Time to get your home ready for a cold and potentially wet winter

With the winter months fast approaching, now is a great time to get your home ready for what may well be a cold and rainy season.

Aside from stocking up on winter woollies and plenty of hot chocolate, you will want to undertake some basic maintenance to prevent leaks and flooding, especially after a few dry years.

Gutters and stormwater drainage

Start by cleaning out all gutters and stormwater drain pipes to ensure there are no leaves and debris that might block the free flow of rainwater into the city's stormwater system. Clean gutters will also prevent water build-up on your roof.

Broken tiles and damaged waterproofing

Leaks are often caused by broken tiles and cracked walls. Wear and tear are to be expected so check if any tiles need replacing or waterproofing needs to be done. This includes checking balconies for waterproofing and any blocked drainage. Flat roofs especially often need waterproofing maintenance to prevent water from pooling. Do a simple flood-test with a hosepipe or get your local handyman in.

Windows and doors

Make sure doors and windows close properly. If you have a rubber seal system, check for necessary repairs, or consider fitting rubber sealing. Keeping the cold out and the heat in will help reduce the need for additional heating.

Insulation and heating

Given that electricity prices have just increased by 15% and the high likelihood of load shedding over the winter months, it is best to prepare ahead and look for ways to minimise reliance on electricity for heating purposes. Roof insulation is one way to regulate the heat (and cold) in your home. A geyser blanket is another great addition, or better yet, install a solar geyser.

Home is our Story and property our passion. As a top real estate brand across the Southern Suburbs and Constantiaberg with a 57-year track record of success, buyers, sellers and investors know they can trust Seeff. Please do feel free to contact us at any time to discuss the opportunities in the market.

Our thoughts and well wishes also go to UCT, the students and others who have been affected by the recent devastating fires. A reminder that time is always of the essence. If you spot anything out of place including anything burning, take appropriate action immediately. For fires, contact 107 from your mobile or call 021 480 7700. For City of Cape Town emergency contacts, see https://www.westerncape.gov.za/general-publication/know-who-you-can-call-emergency.

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