Winter is coming. And it doesn’t have to mean doom and gloom. With a few hacks and styling tricks, you can turn your home into a winter wonderland.
Thongs away, Ugg Boots out. Summer is well and truly over so let’s prepare for the cooler months by winter-proofing our homes. Here’s how:
1. Check your ceiling insulation
If you just bought a brand-new home you’re probably ok. But older houses may need to have the insulation inspected or installed – especially because up to 35% of your home’s heat is lost via the ceiling.
A well-insulated house keeps your home cool in summer and warm in winter and can drastically reduce your energy bills. And it doesn’t need to cost you a fortune. If you’re keen to embrace your inner ‘Tim the Tool Man Taylor’ you can install insulation yourself. Your local Bunnings sells all the materials and will provide you with a step-by-step guide.
2. Funky floors
Tiles, floorboards and polished cement floors look chic and stylish, but they’re not always winter-friendly. So before the freezing weather sets in, treat your floors to some fun and colourful rugs – they instantly update a room, add warmth and make a statement. And if love the 70s, you’ll finally have an excuse to buy a shaggy rug. It’ll keep your tootsies warm and your style cool.
3. Seal of approval
Draughts account for 25% of heat loss in your home, but they’re easy to fix. A few door snakes will keep those nasty draughts at bay keeping you and your home warmer. And they don’t have to be daggy like the ones your parents have; you can buy door snakes in a range of prints and designs or even make them yourself.
You’ll also want to ensure your window frames are well sealed. A secure window with no gaps will stop the heat from getting out and moisture getting in. You can find everything you need to seal your windows at your local hardware store – too easy!
4. Light up
Have an old fireplace but only use it as an ornament? Why not have a chimney sweep clean the flue and remove the soot (hello, Mary Poppins!). An old-fashioned fireplace can be a great way to heat up the house and reduce your energy bills. And if the thought of fire stresses you out, why not install a gas or electric fireplace?
Alternatively, a virtual fireplace is a great placebo – download a log fire screen saver and put it on the telly (don’t forget the marshmallows).
5. Curtain call
Did you know a single pane of glass can lose almost ten times as much heat as the same area of an insulated wall? So investing in some good quality curtains and blinds can help keep you warm and toasty in the winter months.
A new set of curtains is an easy way to give your windows a makeover while adding character and a focal point.
6. Get planted
We genuinely spend a lot more time indoors during winter. But that doesn’t mean you can’t bring the outdoors in. Add some striking foliage, colour and calm to your home by potting some hardy indoor plants.
Orchids and cyclamen are ideal if you’re after colour, while succulents and cacti are great low-maintenance plants that are harder to kill than Jon Snow.
Winter-proofing your home doesn’t need to be expensive. With a few clever tricks, some new décor and even a trip to Bunnings or your local hardware store, you can reduce your energy bills while staying warm and toasty.
This article is prepared based on general information. It does not take into account individual financial objectives or needs and is not financial product advice.
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