With winter officially starting next month on the 21st of December, preparing your garage for the coldest weather becomes more important than ever. If you have found the recent weather cold enough already, let that serve as a preview as to what might be on its way. In this blog, we will be talking about the common problems your garage may face in winter, how you can solve them and why you should solve these problems.
Common Problems with Garages
Garages are very susceptible to the elements. This is due to the fact that they aren’t inhabited most of their lifetime. Many garages – especially ones in older properties – are prone to draughts and gaps that create draughts and other issues. Here is a list of the most common problems you are likely to face in your garage:
- Draughts and cold pockets – Draughts and cold pockets of air are often caused by poorly sealed openings. These include doorways, windows, fireplaces, floor boards etc. They are more noticeable this time of year when winds pick up and temperatures drop.
- Dirty surfaces – By the time winter rolls around, it has been a long time since you spring-cleaned your garage. Oily or greasy surfaces make it more likely for you to slip, this accompanied by the threat of ice is a danger to both you and your vehicle.
- Blocked gutters and drains – If you are lucky enough to have a gutter on your garage, the chances are it will need some checking before winter arrives. The deposit of dead leaves from autumn sometimes means gutters and drains get blocked. Blocked drains and gutters can cause leaks and floods in your garage.
- Freezing temperatures in the garage – Your garage is likely not to be insulated as well as the rest of your house. This can lead to the garage feeling like the North Pole when you step inside.
How to Solve Winter Problems
Most of these problems will not need any major work, and can be done relatively quickly. Here are some ways you can solve these problems yourself in time for when winter arrives:
- Prevent draughts and cold pockets – Sealing or re-sealing areas such as window sills, door frames, floor and side boards are all way you can prevent drafts in your garage. If you don’t want to seal the draught you can deploy a cushion alternative, here are some examples you can use.
- Clean dirty surfaces – Simply cleaning dirty surfaces can prevent slips and falls and make getting your car into the garage easier.
- Unblocking gutters and drains – By removing leaves, twigs and other debris from your gutters and drains, you will prevent the risk of flooding and leaks. Rake leaves and twigs away from drains and dispose of them in your garden bins.
- Preventing freezing temperatures in the garage – Freezing temperatures in your garage can be prevented by installing garage heaters. These are effective but sometimes expensive. Here is a list of five garage heaters you should consider.
- Install an insulated garage door – Due to their 42mm thick panels, our sectional garage doors are perfect for improving the insulation within your garage. They come in a variety of styles and are automatic, saving you from perishing in the cold when trying to open your un-automated door.
Interested in an insulated sectional door for your garage? Contact us, call us on 01603 787069 or email us on sales@autodoorsandgates.co.uk.
Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for the latest company news and more tips and tricks.
