Preparing for Winter - A Checklist for Perth Homes

As the warm grip of summer finally begins to loosen and Perth edges deeper into late autumn, homeowners are swapping sunscreen for scarves and slowly remembering where they hid the heater remote. Mornings are cooler, nights are chillier, and slipping into a blanket or throwing on a thicker knit isn’t just for comfort, it’s become a routine.

Sure, right now the cold feel more like a polite suggestion than a full-on cryochamber. But let’s be honest, in a month or two, you’ll be asking less “should I put something warmer on?” and more “why does my living room feel like an icebox?” The cold season in Perth might not be Arctic-level, but it’s still inconvenient and frustrating, especially if your home has poor insulation.

The good news? You’ve got time. The even better news? We’ve got a checklist.

Whether it’s making your home warmer or more energy efficient, here's how to prepare your Perth home for winter, starting with the windows and doors.

1. Upgrade windows and doors for maximum insulation

Let’s start with one of the most significant protection against cold air: your windows and doors. If they’re poorly sealed or badly installed, even the most high-tech heater won’t save you from feeling the cold drafts entering the home.

The secret to minimising cold air? Compression seals. Unlike other seals, compression seals actually compress when the window or doors are closed, forming a tighter, more effective barrier against air leaks.

What to check:

If yes to any of the above, it's time to consider an upgrade.

Even minor air leaks can have a surprisingly big impact on your home’s temperature. Multiply a few poorly sealed windows or worn-out door frames and suddenly you can feel its effect on the entire home.

2. Maintain Heat Where It Matters (and Lower Your Power Bill)

It’s not just about keeping cold air out, but about keeping your warmth in, too. Double glazed windows feature an insulating gap, filled with argon gas, in between two panes of glass which helps significantly reduce heat transfer. This means your heater doesn’t have to work as hard or as long to maintain a comfortable temperature.

When your home holds onto heat more efficiently, you’re not only more comfortable, you’re also cutting down on energy costs and reducing your environmental impact. It's a win for your wallet and the planet.

3. Prepare for Perth’s Rainy Season

Perth winters aren’t just cooler: they're wetter. Strong winds and sudden storms are as much a part of the season as the shorter daylight hours. That’s why your windows and doors need to be more than just thermally efficient, they need to be weatherproof and waterproof.

Why double glazing helps:

Double glazed units should have their units constructed with quality materials and waterproofing in mind. Specifically, they should utilise desiccants, which are moisture-absorbing materials inside the spacer bar, quietly doing its job to prevent internal condensation. Without it, your new windows could fog up, inviting mould, water damage, and a shorter unit lifespan.

Winter is Coming. Are You Ready?

Perth’s winter might not freeze your bones, but it will absolutely test you and your home’s resilience. Now is the time to assess your insulation, check your seals, and ask the hard questions—like “why am I paying for heat I can’t even feel?” Winter is coming, make sure you are prepared.