Now is the time that we should be getting on with the fitting out of the house, right?
Wrong. Well, sort of.
Before the weather turns wet, cold, and muddy, now is the perfect moment to tackle those crucial exterior tasks that have either been overlooked, or just put off for as long as possible. We all do that sometimes, I’m sure.
Preparing your renovation for winter isn’t just about making your home cosy; it’s about getting the outside jobs ticked off the list before the elements work against you.
As the seasons shift, undertaking external renovations becomes increasingly challenging. Imagine trying to pour concrete footings in freezing temperatures or working on external drains when the ground is waterlogged. It’s not ideal. By seizing the current window of opportunity, you can avoid the complications that winter weather can bring.
Completing work on external drains is a key task we are working on. We particularly have issues around the new extension, where we haven’t yet fitted a downspout and the water is flowing around the footing. It’s not ideal.
By addressing this now, we’re preventing potential flooding issues and water damage during the winter months. It’s a strategic move that protects our home and ensures a smoother process. Hopefully saving time later on. So we will be installing new pipework and getting the metal roofers back to put the downspout on (12 months after the original date!).
Pouring concrete footings is another job best done before the chill sets in. Cold weather can significantly impact the curing process of concrete, potentially compromising its strength and durability. Getting this task done now ensures a solid foundation for your project without weather-related delays.
We have a small retaining wall that needs rebuilding and a footing poured. You might have seen we actually got started on this one recently, so that’s a big tick in the box.
The last big item on the list? Proper storage of equipment and materials.
Winter conditions can wreak havoc on tools and supplies, leading to damage and increased project costs. Taking the time to organise and store everything securely now will save you both time and money in the long run. We particularly cover cement / lime bags, put tarpaulins over sand bulk bags to reduce waterlogging and move everything to a neat area, to avoid us treading through the dirt more than we have to.
By addressing these external tasks before winter arrives, we’re not just checking items off our to-do list; we’re setting the stage for a smoother, more efficient renovation.
Would we rather be working inside, particularly that we are ready for plastering and insulation? 100%. But this will save us time and money in the long run, so in our mind is completely worth the extra effort.
So, before the weather takes a turn for the worse, focus on those outside jobs that are best tackled in the current conditions. It’s a proactive approach that ensures your renovation progresses smoothly, even when the weather outside is less than welcoming.
