Tag: Roofing

Battling the Cold: A Homeowner’s Guide to Winter Wellness

Written by David on 16th January 2024. Posted in Blog.

Battling the Cold: A Homeowner’s Guide to Winter Wellness

As the cold snap tightens its icy grip across the UK, our homes hopefully become refuges from the biting winds and freezing temperatures. Yet, amidst the beauty of winter, our abodes face a barrage of challenges. Frozen pipes, chilly interiors, and a strain on heating systems are the winter woes many of us can relate to.

In this guide, we’ll not only unravel the technical intricacies of winter home maintenance but also explore the human side of weathering the cold. After all, a warm home is not just about cosy interiors; it’s about creating a haven that nurtures both our homes and our well-being.

As the cold weather continues to bite across the UK, Infinity ProServ looks at what you can do to keep yourself warm and safe.

1. Frozen Pipes: A Common Nemesis

When you wake up to a freezing morning, the last thing you want to find out is that your pipes have succumbed to the icy grasp of winter. According to Water UK, the average cost to repair a burst pipe can range from £300 to £1,000. To avoid the heartache (and the hefty bill), homeowners can insulate pipes, allow taps to drip during freezing nights, and keep the heating on a low setting to maintain a steady temperature.

2. Cosy Homes, Happy Hearts

As we strive to keep our homes warm, let’s not forget the human side of winter. The Mental Health Foundation reports that exposure to colder temperatures can impact mental well-being. Adequate heating isn’t just a luxury; it’s a crucial aspect of creating a comfortable space that fosters a positive mindset. Consider upgrading insulation, using draft stoppers, and creating cosy nooks to ensure your home is a sanctuary for both body and soul.

3. A Helping Hand for Your Heating System

The Smith family in Manchester found themselves in a chilly predicament when their heating system struggled to keep up with the plummeting temperatures. According to the National Institute of Building Sciences, poorly maintained heating systems can operate at a significantly lower efficiency. Regular servicing, checking vents, and replacing filters are simple yet effective measures to keep your heating system running smoothly, ensuring warmth when you need it the most. Optimise your heating system by installing a programmable thermostat. Set it to lower temperatures when you’re away to save energy.

4. Check and Insulate Windows and Doors

Ensure windows and doors are properly sealed to prevent drafts. Consider adding weatherstripping and using draft stoppers.

5. Clear Gutters

Regularly clean gutters to prevent ice dams and water damage. Ensure downpipes direct water away from the foundation.

6. Roof Inspection

Inspect the roof for any missing or damaged tiles or slates. Addressing issues promptly prevents potential leaks and water damage.

7. Chimney Maintenance

If you have a fireplace, ensure the chimney is clean and in good condition. Schedule professional chimney sweeps to remove any build-up.

8. Protect Outdoor Taps

Turn off outdoor taps and drain hoses. Consider installing frost-free hose bibs and insulating outdoor pipes.

9. Monitor Trees

Trim overhanging branches that could pose a risk during heavy snow or ice storms. This prevents potential damage to your home and surroundings.

10. Keep Indoor Humidity Balanced

Maintain indoor humidity levels between 30-50% to prevent excessive dryness. Use a humidifier if necessary, especially in bedrooms.

11. Emergency Heating Source

Have a backup heating source such as a space heater or generator, especially in areas prone to power outages.

12. Clear shared paths

If you do get some of the snow forecast, shovel and salt shared path and driveways, to ensure safe passage for everyone. This is especially important for elderly or vulnerable neighbours to ensure that can move around safely, or be accessed by those who assist them.

13. Check on Vulnerable Neighbours

Keep an eye on any neighbours who might be more vulnerable during extreme weather, such as the elderly, those with medical conditions, or families with young children. If the cold spell is prolonged, it might even be useful to help coordinate shopping for those who struggle to get around.

14. Maintain Communication

Keep an open line of communication with neighbours, especially during heavy snowfall, to address any urgent needs or concerns.

15. The Infinity Home Services Touch

As the cold snap continues its dance across the country, remember that winter wellness is a holistic journey. Embrace the joy of cosy blankets, indulge in hot cocoa, and take time to appreciate the warmth of home. After all, it’s not just about enduring winter; it’s about turning it into a season of comfort and joy. How will you make your home a haven this winter?

In the face of winter challenges, Infinity Home Services stands ready to be your partner in home well-being. From addressing frozen pipes to optimising heating systems, our expertise extends beyond technical solutions to encompass the warmth and comfort your home deserves. Let us help you to navigate the complexities of winter maintenance, ensuring your home remains a snug retreat throughout the season.

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As we fortify our homes against the cold, let’s not forget the human touch that makes winter truly special. From ensuring our spaces are warm and inviting to addressing technical challenges, this winter is an opportunity to transform our homes into sanctuaries of comfort. How will you embrace the warmth in your home this season? If any of the problems mentioned above are affecting you, please get in touch with Infinity Home Services by calling 0800 148 8088, or completing the form below:

Storms wreak absolute havoc when they hit the UK hard. Whilst it's rare to suffer loss of life, the impact it has on our homes in terms of flooding and general damage can be significant.

Lessons from Storm Babet: How to Safeguard Your Home Against Storms

Written by David on 20th October 2023. Posted in Blog.

Lessons from Storm Babet: How to Safeguard Your Home Against Storms

The destructive force of nature, as exemplified by Storm Babet this week, has once again reminded us of the vulnerability of our homes to the perils of damage caused by storms. As extreme weather events become increasingly common, it is imperative to learn from these incidents and take proactive measures to protect our homes against potential damage.

Whilst Essex and Suffolk have not been as badly affected as the North of England and Scotland, over 2 inches of rainfall has fallen in the past 24 hours, couple with high winds showing us just what damage can be caused. By focusing on critical areas such as broken or blocked guttering, drainage issues, roof vulnerabilities, and other related concerns, we can significantly reduce the risks of damage associated with storms and protect our homes from the devastating aftermath of such natural calamities.

Storms and the damage they can cause to your home

Storms, with their powerful forces of nature, can wreak havoc on residential homes, causing a range of problems that can significantly impact both the structural integrity and the comfort of living spaces. Here are several common issues that can arise in residential homes as a result of storms:

Roof Damage: High winds and heavy rainfall can lead to various forms of roof damage, including missing or damaged tiles or slates, or even punctures and leaks (particularly in flat roofing). Such vulnerabilities can result in water seepage, structural weakening, and ultimately, interior damage to the property. Conducting regular roof inspections, addressing any existing damages promptly, and ensuring proper insulation can effectively enhance the structural resilience of roofs, thereby minimising the likelihood of water seepage and subsequent interior flooding.
Flooding: Intense rainfall, combined with blocked drainage systems and poor landscaping, can result in severe flooding, leading to water damage, mould growth, and structural instability. Floodwater can also compromise the foundation and electrical systems, posing significant safety risks. Make sure that drains remain clear to allow water to flow, and landscape gardens to avoid allowing water to stand. Well-maintained guttering also plays a significant part in diverting rainwater away from our homes. The accumulation of leaves, debris, and other obstructions in the guttering system can impede the smooth flow of water, leading to overflow and potential water ingress. Regular inspections and timely cleaning of guttering are essential in preventing blockages and ensuring efficient water drainage, thereby reducing the risk of flooding during heavy rainfall.
Window and Door Damage: Debris carried by strong winds can collide with windows and doors, causing breakage and compromising the structural integrity of the building. Broken windows and doors can allow water and debris to enter the home, leading to further damage and safety concerns. In extreme circumstances, doors and windows might require sandbagging to prevent significant flood damage. Damaged doors and windows are also a security concern.
Power Outages: Storms, particularly those accompanied by thunder and lightning, can cause power outages, disrupting daily life and potentially leading to the loss of perishable goods. Extended power outages can also affect heating and cooling systems, posing risks to the health and safety of residents, especially during extreme weather conditions. In the case of thunderstorm, electrical surges can be a menace to appliances and electrical equipment; so don’t forget to unplug them, or use surge protection.
Fallen Trees and Debris: Severe storms can uproot trees and scatter debris, which can damage roofs, windows, and other exterior structures of residential homes. Fallen trees can also pose a significant safety risk, especially if they damage power lines or obstruct roads and pathways.
Basement and Foundation Issues: Excessive rainfall and flooding can lead to water seepage into basements, causing structural damage, mould growth, and the deterioration of the foundations. Such issues can compromise the stability of the entire house and necessitate costly repairs.
Landscape Destruction: Intense storms can lead to the erosion of soil, the uprooting of plants, and the destruction of landscaping features, resulting in both aesthetic and functional damage to the property. Soil erosion can also affect the stability of the property’s foundation, leading to long-term structural issues.
Mould and Mildew Infestation: Excessive moisture from storms, especially when accompanied by flooding or water seepage, can create conducive conditions for the growth of mould and mildew. These can not only cause structural damage but also pose health risks to the residents, triggering allergies, respiratory problems, and other health complications.
Structural Weakening: The cumulative effects of multiple storms over time can gradually weaken the overall structural integrity of residential homes, leading to long-term damage and the need for extensive repairs and renovations to ensure the safety and stability of the property.
Fence Panels: We all know all too well that as soon as there’s a strong gust of wind, fence panels start popping. As well as the aggravation factor, missing fence panels also pose a risk to security; both keeping people out, but also keeping kids and pets within your garden. Whilst a relatively simple fix, it’s a common problem once strong winds start to blow in our winter storms.

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In the aftermath of storms such as Babet, the importance of protecting our homes against storm damage has become more apparent than ever. By understanding the vulnerabilities posed by storms, we can take proactive measures to protect our homes from their devastating impact. Through regular maintenance, timely repairs, and the implementation of effective preventive strategies, we can create a more resilient living environment that can withstand the challenges posed by extreme weather events, safeguarding both our properties and our peace of mind. If you require any help getting ready for a possibly eventful autumn and winter of storms, contact Infinity Home Services by calling 0800 148 8088 or completing the form below and we’ll be in touch!

Infinity Home Services gives you a guide on how to prepare your home for autumn

Autumn-Proofing Your Home: A Checklist for UK Homeowners

Written by David on 18th September 2023. Posted in Blog.

Autumn-Proofing Your Home: A Checklist for UK Homeowners

As the late summer sun gives way to brisk winds and falling leaves, it’s time to transition our homes from the carefree days of summer to the cozy embrace of autumn. In the UK, where the weather can be as unpredictable as it is beautiful, preparing your home for the autumn season is a wise and comforting ritual. From ensuring your heating system is ready to keep you warm to protecting your outdoor spaces from the elements, this article will guide you through the essential steps to make your home a haven during the changing seasons. So, grab your favourite cup of tea and join us as we explore how to embrace the autumnal magic while keeping your home snug and inviting.

Preparing your home for autumn weather in the UK is essential to ensure a comfortable and efficient living space during the cooler and wetter months. Here are some key steps to consider:

Check Your Heating System: As temperatures drop, it’s crucial to have your heating system inspected and serviced by a professional registered with Gas Safe so that it’s ready to roll. Clean or replace filters, bleed radiators, and make any necessary repairs to ensure your heating is efficient and safe. Insulate your water heater and pipes to conserve energy and reduce heat loss.
Insulate and Block Drafts: Drafts can significantly impact your home’s warmth and energy efficiency. Inspect windows and doors for drafts and seal gaps with weatherstripping or caulk. Consider adding thicker curtains or thermal blinds to keep warmth in and cold out. Think about your loft and other void areas such as tiled areas above ground floor windows, both of which are very often un-insulated. Proper insulation helps maintain a comfortable temperature and saves on heating costs.
Clean Gutters and Downpipes: Falling leaves and increased rainfall can quickly clog your gutters. Clean them to prevent water damage to your roof and foundation. Ensure downpipes direct water away from your home’s foundation to avoid long-term damage.
Roof Inspection: Check your roof for damaged or missing tiles or slates. Address any issues promptly to prevent leaks during autumn rains.
Chimney Maintenance: If you have a chimney, schedule a professional chimney sweep to remove creosote build-up and ensure safe and efficient use of your fireplace or wood burner.
Garden and Outdoor Furniture: Prune back overgrown plants and trees to prevent damage from strong autumn winds. Store or cover outdoor furniture to protect it from the elements. Replace any wobbly fence panels now, to avoid them failing when the inevitable winds arrive.
Check Detectors: Test smoke detectors and carbon monoxide detectors to ensure they are working correctly. Replace batteries where needed.
Prepare for Power Cuts: Autumn and winter storms can sometimes lead to power outages. Consider investing in a generator or having a backup power source ready, along with essential supplies like torches and non-perishable food. Simple camping stoves are also a good back-up if your cooker is electric-only.
Stock Up on Winter Essentials: Make sure you have an ample supply of rock salt or grit for icy paths and driveways, as well as a good-quality shovel and winter coats, hats, and gloves for the family.
Autumn Cleaning: Consider a deep cleaning of your home before winter arrives. Clean and store summer items and bring out winter gear.

By taking these steps to prepare your home for autumn, you can ensure a warm, safe, and comfortable living space throughout the season’s unpredictable weather in the UK.

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As you embark on the journey of preparing your home for the autumn in the UK, remember that a little effort now can go a long way in ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable season ahead. Whether it’s cosying up by the fire, sipping hot cocoa, or enjoying the vibrant autumnal colors, there’s something special about this time of year. So, make the most of it by taking these steps to make your home autumn-ready.

If you have any questions or need further guidance on preparing your home for the changing seasons, don’t hesitate to reach out. We’re here to help you navigate the transition and keep your home warm and welcoming. Simply fill out the contact form below, or call 0800 148 8088, and our experts will be happy to assist you in any way we can. Embrace the beauty of autumn in the UK, and let your home be your sanctuary during this enchanting season.

Infinity Home Services looks at the problems around Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) and its use within domestic properties.

RAAC and Ruin? A guide to RAAC in the home

Written by David on 5th September 2023. Posted in Blog.

RAAC and Ruin? A guide to RAAC in the home

RAAC, which stands for Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, has been a prominent topic in the construction industry for several years, but last week hit the headlines with the closure of around 150 schools just days before reopening for the new school year.

A huge snowball effect is unfolding due to its widespread use between the 1950s and 1990s, with fears of even wider reaching consequences than first thought.

Whilst the current public outcry is focusing on schools, and to a lesser extent hospitals, what are the impacts of RAAC on your home? Here we look at the substance, and the realities of living with this questionable construction material.

RAAC – What’s the problem?

Many buildings dating from the 1950s to the 1980s incorporate this material into their structures. Unfortunately, its deterioration has led to structural failures in numerous buildings, both in the UK and abroad. Some of these incidents have had catastrophic consequences.

These concerns have prompted a comprehensive review of RAAC and its applications in UK buildings which we are currently watching unfold. The NHS estimates that repairing thirty hospitals could cost approximately £1 billion. Moreover, it is believed that approximately 1,500 schools were constructed using it during its peak usage. To a lesser degree, RAAC has been used in domestic construction, although its usage in this areas is believed to be far less widespread.

What is RAAC?

Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) was the poster-child material of 1950s construction, and offered a versatile, eco-conscious building material. Its rise to prominence was driven by its unique attributes; including its lightweight nature, exceptional thermal insulation properties, and environmentally friendly characteristics.

The origins of Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (AAC) trace back to the early 20th century, with its initial invention dating to the 1920s in Sweden. AAC quickly garnered attention across Europe due to its low density and user-friendly qualities. As time progressed, innovations paved the way for the evolution of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete, incorporating steel reinforcement to bolster its structural integrity. The manufacturing process of RAAC involves blending cement, sand, lime, and aluminium powder with water, resulting in a robust yet lightweight porous material. Despite its name, it isn’t truly “concrete.”

RAAC has found extensive use in Europe, Asia, and Australia. Thanks to continuous enhancements and refinements over the years, RAAC has emerged as one of the construction industry’s most sought-after building materials.

The problem with RAAC

The production of substantial Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete planks involves a “foaming” procedure, incorporating silicate and calcareous chemicals along with bulking and accelerating agents. It is this ‘foam’ that the UK press have referred to the ‘Aero-like texture’ of RAAC. This foamy substance is intentionally created to adhere to the reinforcement, ensuring its structural integrity.

Nonetheless, planks can experience deflection (bending) between their support points due to various environmental factors, including loading, moisture infiltration, and thermal or carbon influences. Deflection has the potential to induce cracks, particularly in areas of the AAC material subjected to excessive stress or where it falters around the reinforcement. These fissures also permit moisture infiltration, which, in turn, can weaken the reinforcement itself.

RAAC was thought to have a life span of around 30 years. Whilst the most recent construction using RAAC stopped in the 1990s – which is just ‘coming of age’, much of the UK’s building stock utilising this material is significantly older.

As these planks degrade and potentially deflect more and more, they are weakened. This can ultimately lead to them fail entirely, with potentially dire consequences such as Singlewell Primary School in Kent, which collapsed in 2018.

Risks associated with Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete

The formulation and production of Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete introduce various risks to structures, including:

Structural Integrity: Although RAAC is recognised for its strength and durability, its structural integrity can be compromised due to design, construction, or improper reinforcement installation. In rare instances, this could result in structural issues such as wall, floor, or roof cracks or, in extreme cases, even collapse. These occurrences can pose significant dangers to occupants and neighboring properties.
Fire Resistance: While RAAC possesses inherent fire-resistant qualities, its precise composition and the presence of organic binders can influence its fire performance. The use of subpar or low-quality RAAC may not offer sufficient fire protection, potentially putting building occupants and nearby structures at risk.
Moisture and Water Damage: RAAC is susceptible to moisture infiltration if not adequately sealed or shielded. The ingress of water can trigger material deterioration, weakening the overall structure over time. This deterioration can lead to the growth of mould, degradation of surface finishes, and potential health hazards for building occupants.

The likelihood of finding RAAC in my home

The likelihood of finding RAAC in your home depends very much on the type of dwelling you own. Generally speaking, the likelihood of finding RAAC within a standard-construction house – be it detached, semi-detached or within a terrace is fairly low.

RAAC, from the typical examples of usage being schools and hospitals tended to be utilised within the construction of larger buildings. It is therefore reasonable to suspect that larger blocks of flats; especially those with flat roofs, may be more likely to feature RAAC. It is therefore anticipated that RAAC has been widely used within larger blocks of social housing constructed within that period of the 1950s-1990s.

What to do if I think I have RAAC in my home

While significant incidents involving Reinforced Autoclaved Aerated Concrete (RAAC) have occurred, it is crucial to emphasise that proper management can effectively mitigate its risks, provided that the material is well-maintained and not allowed to deteriorate significantly. To minimise the potential hazards associated with RAAC construction, the following measures should be put into practice:

Proper Design and Engineering: Engage experienced surveyors, structural engineers, and contractors well-versed in RAAC construction to evaluate existing RAAC structures. Conduct thorough structural analyses and implement necessary reinforcements to ensure the building’s stability and safety.
Quality Assurance: Utilise high-quality reinforcement materials and construction methods to ensure the safety of RAAC where found. Implement routine inspections and testing to guarantee compliance with industry standards.
Fire Protection Measures: Strictly adhere to fire safety regulations and apply suitable fire-resistant coatings or treatments to enhance the fire performance of RAAC structures. Additionally, install fire alarms and if appropriate sprinkler systems and evacuation plans to minimise fire-related risks.
Moisture Management: Incorporate comprehensive waterproofing measures during construction, with particular attention to joints, openings, and vulnerable areas susceptible to moisture infiltration. Regular maintenance and inspections should identify and rectify any signs of water damage, including the assessment of roof coverings to prevent leaks that could compromise the RAAC structure’s integrity.

RAAC, despite its inherent advantages, also presents significant risks that demand attention to ensure the safety of both properties and occupants. Given its prevalence in UK construction, whilst it’s not believed to be too commonly used in single dwellings, care must be taken to ensure you understand your property, and where relevant ensure that diligent maintenance and mitigation measures are used to substantially reduce the associated risks.

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RAAC is undoubtedly a huge talking point within the press throughout the UK. And justly so.

Infinity Home Services understand the levels of anxiety being caused by this problem. Whilst the first port of call should be a structural engineer or chartered building surveyor, Infinity Home Services will endeavour to assist wherever possibly. Simply call 0800 148 8088 or complete the form below:

Infinity Home Services looks at the damage caused to homes and gardens by strong winds

Gone with the wind

Written by David on 11th March 2021. Posted in Blog.

The UK is currently being battered by several days of heavy, gusting wind. Whilst this might be good for kites, drying clothes and maybe cutting travel time on flights; it doesn’t always bode well for our homes and gardens. We’re looking at the areas where you might need to think about maintenance or repairs in light of this blowing concern.

In heavy wind, fence panels are often blown out, or damaged, requiring repair.

Fences

Fences can be particularly vulnerable in high winds. They’re lightweight, and given their size and construction, easily catch the wind, acting like a sail.

Often the first thing householders spot after a gale is that their fence panels have popped out, allowing easy access to their neighbours! Usually, fence panels can be picked up (carefully, once the wind has died down) and slotted back in to place.

Sometimes though, these heavy winds can damage panels beyond repair, or even cause their posts to be moved if their foundations are not suitable, or have begun to deteriorate (particularly where wooden posts are set directly in to the ground). In these cases, it’s often preferable to call in a handyman or gardener/landscaper to assist in either repairing damage, or in some cases installing new fencing.

Roofs

Roofs are again a common area of concern in high winds. Naturally, being as exposed as they are, at height where wind speed usually increases, roofs can be susceptible to more damage.

In terms of ‘whole’ roofs, lightweight and/or low-pitched roofs are most at risk; where they can suffer from uplift (a phenomenon caused by the variation in air pressure above and below the roof). Whilst winds that can tear off whole roofs are uncommon, there is always a risk.

More likely, however, is the chance of tiles or slates being either damaged or dislodged. In itself, falling debris is of course a danger to anyone or thing below. Should you spot missing slates or tiles, the roof is then also at risk of allowing water ingress; with the potential for water damage to building fabric including rafters and joists; and beyond.

With wind of course, often comes rain! With heavy winds really driving rain, water ingress can also occur through detailing areas such as lead flashing, felt laps or abutments with walls. It is highly common to hear homeowners complaining that they only see evidence of fresh leaks ‘when the wind blows this way’ – this is a common indicator or damage to these details failing.

Chimneys and aerials can be susceptible to damage in heavy wind. Infinity ProServ can help with maintenance.

Aerials and Chimneys

Whilst you’re looking upwards, other areas of your home that are situated at height might also need to come under scrutiny. Chimneys and aerials are the most common components that might struggle in the wind.

Much like the sound of rigging blowing around a marina, walk down any residential road and it won’t surprise you to hear (and then see) an aerial that has broken free of its fixings; particularly in this digital age where it might not still be in use and thus doesn’t affect signal. Whilst it might not impact on your viewing pleasures, this lump of metal sliding around your roof is doing damage to the slates or tiles, which could result in a far more costly repair being required.

Again, at the more extreme end of the spectrum, chimneys have been known to to succumb to heavy winds, leaving in its wake an expensive remedial repair, and again the potential for damage to anything in the chimney’s path when it comes down! Given their role for a house, and the increase in the use of wood burners, chimneys are now commonly in use again, and as such, the risk of a fire being cause by their deconstruction is again a significant concern (along with getting it swept regularly). Possibly the most important consideration is to ensure that the construction is sound; pointing is possibly the key consideration in ensuring that it is sound. Given their structure and location, chimneys also often feature a lot of flashing detail, which as we know can be susceptible to failure and allowing additional damage to occur.

Trees

Sadly gardens do suffer from the wind too; and particularly susceptible are our trees.

Good maintenance should ensure that we keep trees in fine fettle. Make sure that you keep questionable limbs in check, trimming back, or removing any which look damaged or even likely to cause damage should they break in heavy winds. Not only will this protect your trees, but it will also ensure that you can protect your wider property. Delimbing, or even removing whole trees is not for the faint-hearted though, and it is generally better to call in the experts for this type of work to ensure your safety.

Whilst we always try to maintain our homes proactively; it’s not always possible, and events such as the current poor weather can catch us off-guard. If ever you need help for roofing, fencing or landscaping issues, be sure to call Infinity Home Services on 0800 148 8088 or complete the form below.

Infinity Home Services looks at the outdoor maintenance and projects you need to consider for your garden and outside space

Spring has sprung – time for the garden

Written by David on 6th March 2021. Posted in Blog.

Spring has sprung – time for the garden

It’s garden time! The nights are drawing out, the weather (touch wood) is improving, and flowers and lots of signs of new life are beginning to appear following a wet (and some might say miserable) winter.

Especially this year; given the events of the past twelve months people’s spirits are rising as we begin to see the prospect of spring and summer and the chance to live more our life outdoors and soaking up valuable Vitamin D.

As we begin to venture outside again, inevitably there will be work to do in the garden; tidying up from winter and doing all of those maintenance jobs you’ve put off, gardening work including the first passes mowing the lawn or even thinking about those more exciting projects such as laying the new patio

Maintenance

Whilst they might not be the most exciting of jobs to think about, but coming out of winter there usually are a whole host of maintenance issues to consider. Some of these are borne out of problems that will have occurred over the winter, some are jobs that we just wouldn’t want to have to do when it’s cold and wet! The list below will give you some good starting points of jobs that you might need to think about:

Pressure washing – Patios, paths and block paving all look a bit better for a bit of a clean. If your garden is surrounded by trees, or suffers a bit of shade through the day, you might find that areas suffer a bit of greening up; which can sometimes become slippery when wet. With (hopefully) clear weather ahead, now’s the time to get the pressure washer out and spruce up these areas.
Level paving – The freeze/thaw nature of the coldest of winter weather can eventually lead to the base of paving to deteriorate, allowing paving slabs/blocks to become loose, and potentially wobbly. Ensure that these are re-laid to a firm, level base to avoid a trip hazard, particularly for older residents or children.
Repairing or repainting fencing – With most fences being wooden, the weather can quickly take its toll on fencing. Heavy winds might damage or even remove fence panels, and the wind and rain combine to wear away protective finishes such as paint or stain, allowing water ingress and the wood to deteriorate or even rot away. Now’s the time to replace those panels or get out there with your brushes.
Shed repairs – Again, generally being wooden means that garden sheds often bear the brunt of the winter weather. Make sure that roofs are still water tight, and replace damaged felt if necessary. Again, a good lick of paint or stain will help to preserve your sheds for the long-term.
Check guttering and downpipes – Winter, and autumn in particular brings with it the fall of leaves and foliage. Whilst you should keep an eye on this all of the time, spring is a great time to check all of your guttering, and give them a clear-out of any debris left over. Finish the job by running a hose in the gutter, and ensuring that the downpipes flow freely and are not blocked.
Visually check roof – Whilst direct access to your roof might not be possible, using a pair of binoculars and/or going up in your loft; visually check the state of your roof for any cracked tiles or slates, or if it’s a flat roof any damage to the felt capping sheet. Whilst a fix or replacement might not be straightforward, roofs really are an area where early intervention can pay dividends through reducing further cost from additional damage.
Pointing of brickwork – As with paving, a wet winter, and in particular a cold one, can cause damage to brickwork; particularly if the pointing is failing. Failed pointing will allow water access in to the bricks. The subsequent freeze/thaw action can then allow the faces of bricks to crack away, known as spalling. Again, early intervention with proactive pointing can reduce costs in the long term.
External painting – Much like your fencing, painting offers protection to your walls or woodwork for the longer term. Make sure you keep on top of redecorations, generally aiming to undertake this every 5-6 years.

Gardening

Gardens really start to come to life in the Spring as we all know. For those that way inclined it’s a time of great excitement, and the catalyst to really get things moving. For those who maybe aren’t so sure, some of the first steps to take are outlined below:

Wind damage – Winter takes its toll in the garden too. Think about tidying up any wind damage to trees and bushes to keep things tidy.
Planting – The warming of the air and soil means that spring can be a busy time for planting both flower bulbs as well as fruit and vegetables, both outside in the soil and in pots.
Weeding – Whilst it’s lovely seeing your plants and lawn coming to life, the downside is that weeds are also going to start to flourish, so it’s time to get on top of them, and keep on top with regular weeding!
Pruning – If you missed the boat before winter, give roses and other annuals a quick trim back to their lowest buds to allow them to flourish this year. Winter-flowering plants such as Jasmine can be pruned back also. A little later in spring, hedges such as Buxus can be given the first of several ‘haircuts’ to promote new growth.
Lawns – When temperatures exceed 5 Degrees Celcius, grass will keep on growing, so it will be time to start mowing regularly again will start to need to be mown. Spring is also a great time to give the lawn a feed, aerate it (to improve drainage) and cut the edges back.
Whilst we might think our feathered friends have survived another winter, make sure you keep feeding them – they’re reaching their main breeding season and need to keep their strength up!
Gardens host many, many beneficial insects. If you have the space, think about adding some plants that will help them thrive. The Royal Horticultural Society gives great information on what you could plant here.

Projects

It’s one thing to ‘get the garden straight’, but garden’s should also be somewhere to enjoy. Through the COVID pandemic, we all found a new love for our outside spaces, with many people undertaking projects to create improved spaces. Many people will be thinking now about what their plans are for larger external works so that they can be enjoyed for the summertime, such as:

Fencing – We all like a bit of privacy, and fencing is usually one of the first jobs we tackle when working on our gardens. Many people opt for simple fence panels, but how about looking at alternatives such as wicker fencing, or using fast growing plants such as bamboo to offer screening.
Patios – Nicely paved areas offer versatility for gardens, particularly for families where it can provide a great space for kids on bikes or scooters. Numerous options existing including block paving, slabs (in numerous options) or even old-school crazy paving. Don’t forget to consider drainage so that you don’t create wet spots when it rains!
Outdoor living spaces – 2020 saw a huge rise in the uptake of outdoor rooms such as offices, summerhouses and gazebo/pergola areas to maximise outdoor living.
BBQ areas – Allied to the outdoor living movement, more people are now creating outdoor, or ‘summer’ kitchens incorporating BBQs, pizza ovens and even smokers.

Contact Us

So hopefully we’ve given you the impetus to get outside and start enjoying your gardens and outdoor spaces. We all know the benefits of sunshine and fresh air, so why not make the most of what we have available. Taking just a few of those steps and ideas outlined above could help you reduce maintenance costs or ideally improve your surroundings. Infinity Home Services is always there to help you make your dreams a reality with our external works and landscaping team. Call now on 0800 148 8088 or complete the form below.

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