SUMMER IS FINALLY HERE, AND BRITS ARE BASKING IN THE GLORIOUS SUNSHINE – FOR NOW.

Ask anyone in the UK, and they will tell you the same thing. It’s dangerous to leave the house, no matter what the weather, without a brolly, gloves, sun cream, glasses and thermal clothing. You know, just in case. For those expecting the heatwave to last a lifetime, we’re sorry to burst your bright bubble of sunshine. It’s not going to happen. Well, at least not in the UK.

But no matter what the wonderful British weather throws at us, there’s always an opportunity to prepare. If you’re like many homeowners, you know you should be taking steps to protect your property ahead of time. The best advice is to prep before the summer season shifts- that means getting to work on winter-proofing your property now.

In today’s article, we’ll discuss simple steps you can take to prepare your home for seasonal changes.

Preparations for the summer

Step 1: Become a fan of ceiling fans (pun intended)

Fans keep you cool in the warmer months. However, when cranked up, they can circulate hot air around the room. Combat this with strategic fan placement across your home. If you have a ceiling fan, set it counter-clockwise to blow to hot air away. Another fan-tastic tip is to use a desk fan for a more direct line of cool air. Place a tub of ice in front of your fan, and when the ice melts, it will direct a cooling breeze onto your face.

Step 2: Trim the trees around your house

While general maintenance is not a necessity, it can help direct sunlight towards your property. If you have any trees and large bushes next to your house, make it your mission to trim them. Of course, you should only do so if they are on your property. Remove any dead overhanging branches to let a steady stream of sunlight into your garden. The leftover wood you collect now can be used as firewood in the colder months, so it’s a win-win situation!

Step 3: Swap your sheets

Not only will seasonally switching up your bedding help freshen up your room, but it will also prevent you from feeling flustered. While textiles like fleece and fluffy blankets are great insulation during the winter months, cotton is a smarter move in the summer. It breathes easier and prevents you from sweating – gross, but it’s a fact.

Step 4: Keep the blinds closed

Did you know that over 30% of unwanted heat comes from your windows and that making use of blinds, curtains and shades can save you up to 7% on bills? Nope, well take our advice. Closing your blinds can prevent your house from turning into a great whacking sauna. If that’s the vibe you are going for ( picture a sticky, sweaty sofa…), then go ahead. Otherwise, crack open and window and pull on those blinds.

Preparations for the winter

Step 1: Take control of your heating

When the icy chill of winter hits your home, only then do we start thinking about our heating – why? Plan ahead of time for the most competitive prices on heating and the best quality heating for your home. This may be the time to consider an oil-based central heating system for your property.

Here are just some of the many benefits of using heating oil, as opposed to gas, to heat your home:

Efficiency: You will be pleased to know that heating oil tanks are highly efficient, meaning you will get a good return for every unit which is used. Saving money on energy is going to be a lifesaver when you’re feeling the chill inside. The tanks used to store the heating oil also last a long time, giving you overall efficiency on both the product and the system.

Safety: Although gas leaks only happen every once in a blue moon, gas doesn’t have the best reputation when it comes to safety. An exposed flame can lead to many health and safety hazards, whereas oil does not have the same risks associated with it. Another problem is that gas can form invisible fumes making it very hard to detect. An oil-based system can be identified quickly and fixed without hassle. It’s the perfect family-friendly solution to home heating.

Pricing: The main reason for homeowners to switch a supplier is cost. The same applies when it comes to gas versus heating oil. In recent years, heating oil has dropped in price and, along with the superb efficiency of the system, homeowners tend to get better value for money. This means they spend less in the long run. Quick tip: purchase heating oil in the summer months for a more competitive quote.

Follow the link for more information and advice on heating oil prices.

Step 2: Have winter tools ready to use

Get your shovel, broom, ice scraper and salt at the ready. They may have a special place – probably in your garden shed or garage, where you can store them in the summer months. But, make sure they are there ready for when you need them. There’s nothing worse than trying to back your car out of the driveway without access to grit or a shovel. Team together with your neighbours and support one another to prevent getting stuck in the snow.

Step 3: Refresh your interiors

Give your home a winter makeover and provide it with a scarf, hat and gloves. In other words, give your house a layer of protection against the cold. Check the insulation of your attic to ensure you are free from damp and drafts. You should also consider a little decorating. Swapping out thin curtains or blinds for thicker drapes will trap the air inside – the darker the colour, the better. Try adding rugs to any hard flooring to help insulate them, and keep your toes toasty.

Bio: This article was produced in collaboration with Rix Petroleum who have been supplying heating oil for homes across the UK for 80 years, and counting. They have a reputation as a friendly, knowledgeable, family run business that works with the needs and requirements of the customer in mind at all times. Contact them on 0800 542 4207 for an instant free heating oil quote.

For more inspiration for your home, please pay a visit to our interiors page.