Brits are thinking of ways to save money at the minute amid the cost of living crisis and now is the ideal time to tackle certain jobs at home that could cost you dearly if left undone.
Many people sweep through their home indoors with a spring clean, while neglecting the exterior, then come to regret it within a short time.
So here’s what you should be doing now to avoid professional repair costs, according to the experts….
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1 Clearing debris from your guttering will save you £980
As well as causing damp problems with built-up water seeping through to internal walls, a large gathering of moss, leaves and other debris can cause the guttering to break completely. An average gutter replacement can cost around £700 and damp-proofing internal walls can cost up to £280 per wall.
2 Pressure washing the exterior of your will house will save you £597
Depending on your property, it is recommended that you clean the exterior of your home every two years to help prevent moss and algae growing, which will also protect the siding and paintwork.
Cleaning can also save you money when compared to exterior painting, which can rack up huge costs. If moss is left to grow, it can spread up the side of walls and in severe cases, even cause the roof to lose its structural integrity. Use a pressure washer to clean the outside of your home, or opt for a specialist for around £597 who can professionally clean the external brickwork of your home.
3 Inspecting your loft insulation will save you £350
As well as retaining heat during winter, having good quality insulation can also help to keep your home cool in the summer months. With the rise in energy bills, it is worthwhile using springtime to inspect your loft insulation to ensure that there is enough insulation material and no gaps which can lead to cold spots. Depending on the type of insulation you require, a professional installation can cost £350 but can be saved if you do it yourself.
4 Removing moss and weeds from your outdoor paving will save you £300
Neglecting the weeds and moss on your outdoor paving or driveway can cause the roots of the weeds to grow underneath the paving stones and result in unsightly cracks. Remove the weeds by hand, use a liquid weed killer on stubborn weeds, and clean with a pressure washer – or invest in professional cleaning which can cost £300 for a medium-sized driveway.
5 Wiping down your exterior window and door frames will save you £225
The dirt and grime build-up from the harsh elements over winter on exterior door frames and windows can cause premature fading and discolouration in extreme cases. This can be remedied by removing loose dust and dirt before wiping down the frames with water and dish soap. Older wooden frames on exterior doors may require a full repaint which could cost around £225, so keep them in top condition with regular cleaning.
6 Checking your roof tiles will save you £225
Thanks to the storms in recent months and naturally occurring build-up of moss and other debris, your roof may need some attention. Dirt can also disrupt the natural flow of water towards the guttering, leading to excess water which may damage the bonds between each roof tile and result in damp and other costly water damage. The average cost for roof tile replacement for five broken tiles is £170, which can stretch to £225 if cement bedding is required.
7 Cleaning your decking will save you £92
Blackening of decking can happen after a wet winter when fungus reacts with wet wood to create an unsightly stain, which can lead to rotting. You can save yourself the £92 fee of having your decking professionally cleaned by doing it using a broom and a solution of water and a fit-for-purpose decking cleaner to keep the decking in good condition and minimise the risk of rot.
Jenny Turner, property manager at Insulation Express said: “The importance of regular maintenance of the exterior of your home cannot be underestimated.
“With the price of energy skyrocketing in recent months, taking steps to help reduce your gas and electricity bills is certainly advised, such as installing the relevant insulation products where necessary to make your home as energy-efficient as possible.
“By keeping on top of house maintenance throughout the year, you can minimise the risk of costly repairs or the need to bring in professionals which can quickly mount up in expenses.”
Counteracting the rising cost of living:
The team at Insulation Express identified the above exterior tasks you can carry out yourself. To find out more, visit their website.
