As we creep closer towards winter once more, colder days and darker nights are right around the corner.

Be prepared for the cold and wet weather and enjoy a cosy, warm and cost-effective winter with these five handy tips from our experts.

Insulate your loft

When a home is well-insulated, occupants encounter fewer cold draughts, whilst enjoying lower electricity bills during the expensive winter months.

Loft insulation offers a great return on investment for homeowners, lasting for decades and reducing annual energy bills by hundreds every year.

Draft proof windows and doors

Keeping warm air in and cold air out is a first simple step to a cosy, warm home.

Windows are one of the main culprits when it comes to losing heat, so looking after them is crucial.

Small changes such as covering letter boxes and key holes, using draught excluders and filling gaps in walls are quick, easy and cost-effective ways to reduce draughts throughout the home.

Get the boiler serviced

Autumn is always a good time to get the boiler serviced, ensuring it runs smoothly over the winter months. Boiler engineers are often busier over winter too, so getting a service early ensures problems are fixed as soon as possible.

Plant spring bulbs

When it comes to the garden, there are more jobs to tackle over autumn than ensuring the outdoor space is clean and prepared for the cold weather incoming. Instead of thinking about winter, think about spring instead. By planting spring bulbs during autumn means that gardeners can enjoy a bright colourful outdoor space as soon as springtime arrives.

Clear gutters

Leaking gutters are one of the leading causes of penetrating damp, it’s important to make sure gutter cleaning isn’t overlooked. Remove leaves and other debris to prevent water pooling and causing damage to the property.

To avoid further build-ups, mesh guards can also be added to avoid leaves consistently blocking the guttering.

To stock up on autumn essentials – whether you’re a tradesperson or independent retailer – head to your local Stax branch to discover everything needed for the colder months ahead.