Tuesday, February 13, 2007
Category:
Home Improvements
Homeowners have been warned that they should prepare for this weeks’ big freeze following reports of the increasing risk of cold and wintry conditions.
Halifax Home Insurance advises homeowners that loft pipes could be the first to freeze unless they take the right precautions. Freezing temperatures bring burst pipes and this usually occurs in the loft.
Pipes burst when temperatures drop. Frozen water inside pipes expands and this causes pipes to swell and crack. Older pre 1960s properties are particularly at risk as they do not benefit from modern insulation which provides protection against the elements.
Vicky Emmott from Halifax Home Insurance commented “Water from a burst pipe within a loft space can very quickly cause damage to plaster ceilings, wall plaster, kitchen units, electrical wiring and decoration, as well as carpets, beds, electrical items and other contents within a property. So by simply insulating your pipes you can help to protect yourself from unwanted disasters this winter. It is also worth considering how prepared you would be if the worst was to happen. Halifax Home Insurance provides its customers with a 24 hour home emergency helpline manned by fully trained colleagues who can offer useful information and advice on how to manage a home emergency.”
..........................................................................................................................................................
Once the wintry weather is over, homeowners who would like to prepare their properties for next years’ cold spate could consider funding improvements with a
secured loan. One of many options, a secured loan could help provide the finances needed to replace roofing or to improve insulation, thus protecting properties against the risk of bursting pipes. Secured loans may also be used to fund other home improvement projects including extensions and loft conversions, both useful investments to create space to accommodate a growing family. Secured loans can also be used for smaller space creating projects such as garage conversions or even adding a conservatory. Homeowners can repay a secured loan over a term of 5 to 25 years.
