Make the most of the good weather and get your home ready for the autumn

Flat roofs, often seen on extensions, need regular checks before winter sets in. Cracked felt, root or moss growth, rotten roof timbers and poor drainage can create all sorts of problems. The majority of flat roof failures occur at the outlets, flashings, perimeters and gutters, so inspect these areas particularly carefully. Other jobs you should tackle:

• Remove old and blistered paint from timber door and window frames
• Repaint window frames and woodwork and avoid painting in hot sun! (The paintwill dry too quickly and may blister)
• Replace crumbling pointing – make sure it’s lime mortar and not cement if it’s pre-1919
• Replace damaged guttering and rusted cast-iron guttering with a modern alternative
• Check exterior lighting is working before daylight fades
• Check gutters and downpipes for blockages
• Clear out the shed – clean, treat and put away furniture
• Make sure missing or damaged tiles and slates have been replaced.

A word or two of advice – don’t tackle any of these jobs if you don’t feel you can complete them safely and properly. Be on the safe side and call in an FMB expert, call Cox Format on 020 8449 9697.