Whatever the weather

Get ready for winter storms and rain with these pro tips for protecting and sealing the exterior of your property

- HOLLY REANEY

There are many things to love about autumn - the crunchy leaves, the warm woollen jumpers and the roaring fires, to name a few. However, it also brings wind, rain and a significant drop in temperature, not to mention the promise of frosts and possibly snow later in the season. Before the weather turns, take the opportunity to weatherproof your home to ensure that it is ready to face whatever the sky throws at it.

CHECK THE ROOF

If you take only one step to weatherproof your home, then checking the roof is essential. To do this, either get out the ladders or stand across the street or at the bottom of the garden and assess the roof with binoculars. If you see any cause for concern, ask a roofer to conduct a thorough inspection from both inside and out.

'Good roof maintenance is vital to avoid water damage to a building's fabric. Slipped slates or tiles, failing leadwork and roof valleys blocked by debris will all wreak havoc if neglected,' says Roger Hunt, author of the Old House Handbook (£21, Frances Lincoln).

When checking your roof ensure all tiles are properly fixed in place - note any that are missing; check flashing, ridges and junctions to ensure there's no space for water ingress; look on the ground for any roof debris; and inspect inside the loft for damp areas, chinks of light or dislodged tiles. 'Roofs should be repaired promptly by an experienced roofer. Never use quick fixes, such as spray foams or liquid waterproofing; they may trap moisture, hinder repairs and are likely to prevent the future reuse of materials,' adds Roger. Also remove any moss and leaves from the roof as these will trap moisture and lead to dampness and rot.

CHIMNEY