Winter in the UK brings picturesque landscapes, but it also presents challenges for homeowners. From rising damp to draughty rooms, cold weather often exposes hidden issues within your property. Fortunately, expert advice from a surveyor can help you tackle these problems effectively, ensuring your home stays warm, dry, and energy-efficient.

In this blog, we’ll explore common winter-related issues and provide practical tips to prepare your home for the colder months.

 

  1. Address Damp and Condensation

Damp and condensation are two of the most common issues homeowners face during winter. With windows closed and heating turned up, moisture levels can rise, increasing the risk of mould, peeling paint, and even structural damage.

Surveyor Tips:

  • Ventilate smartly: Use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens, particularly after cooking or showering. If fans aren’t available, keep windows slightly ajar for a short time to reduce humidity.
  • Invest in a dehumidifier: Devices like dehumidifiers can reduce moisture levels, especially in bedrooms or other poorly ventilated spaces. Modern models are energy-efficient and cost as little as £1 a day to run.
  • Inspect for leaks: Blocked gutters and downpipes can cause water overflow, leading to damp patches on walls. Clear gutters regularly and check for cracks or damage to ensure water drains away from your property.
  • Watch for signs of dampness: Look out for musty smells, discoloured walls, or bubbling paint. Catching these early can save significant repair costs.

 

  1. Maximise Heating Efficiency

Heating inefficiencies not only make your home less comfortable but also lead to unnecessarily high energy bills. Ensuring your heating system is in peak condition will keep you warm and reduce costs.

Surveyor Tips:

  • Bleed radiators: Trapped air in radiators can cause cold spots. Use a radiator key to release air until water flows steadily. Regularly check radiators for optimal performance.
  • Service your boiler: An annual boiler service by a Gas Safe-registered engineer ensures your system is running safely and efficiently. This can prevent breakdowns during the colder months.
  • Upgrade insulation: Loft insulation is one of the most effective ways to retain heat. According to the Energy Saving Trust, adding 270mm of insulation can save homeowners up to £355 a year on energy bills.
  • Consider smart thermostats: Devices like Hive or Nest allow you to schedule heating around your lifestyle, helping to save energy while maintaining comfort.

 

  1. Eliminate Draughts

Draughty windows, doors, and floors can significantly affect your home’s warmth, even if your heating system is working efficiently.

Surveyor Tips:

  • Seal gaps: Use draught excluders, weatherstrips, or caulk to fill gaps around windows, doors, and skirting boards. For an instant fix, place a rolled towel at the base of the doors.
  • Upgrade glazing: If your budget allows, invest in double or triple glazing for better insulation and noise reduction. These upgrades can lower energy bills while increasing property value.
  • Check unused chimneys: Install a chimney balloon or cap to block cold draughts while preventing heat loss through unused fireplaces.

 

  1. Protect Your Roof and Walls

Your home’s roof and walls bear the brunt of winter weather. Regular maintenance can prevent minor issues from escalating into costly repairs.

Surveyor Tips:

  • Inspect your roof: Use binoculars to check for missing tiles, cracks, or debris. Pay attention to the flashing around chimneys and skylights, as these are common leak points.
  • Check external walls: Look for cracks, crumbling mortar, or efflorescence (white salt deposits), which indicate water penetration. Repair damage promptly to avoid further deterioration.
  • Clean gutters and downpipes: Blocked gutters can lead to water pooling and freezing, increasing the risk of structural damage. Ensure water drains away from your property to prevent dampness or flooding.
  • Maintain brickwork: If your home has solid brick walls, consider adding external or internal insulation to improve energy efficiency.

 

  1. Prepare for Extreme Weather

Winter storms, heavy snowfall, and freezing temperatures can cause unexpected damage if your home isn’t adequately prepared.

Surveyor Tips:

  • Trim overhanging branches: Remove branches that could snap and damage your roof or windows during storms. If in doubt, consult a tree surgeon.
  • Secure outdoor furniture: Anchor garden furniture, bins, and other items to prevent them from becoming hazardous in high winds.
  • Inspect foundations: Prolonged freezing temperatures can worsen existing cracks in your home’s foundation. Monitor and repair cracks regularly to maintain structural integrity.
  • Emergency supplies: Keep a basic winter emergency kit, including torches, blankets, and a portable phone charger, in case of power cuts.

 

Why Winter-Proofing Matters

Proactive winter maintenance is essential not just for staying warm but for preserving the long-term value of your home. As RICS-accredited surveyors, we’ve seen how addressing minor issues now can prevent costly repairs later.

Whether you’re a homeowner or planning to purchase a property, a professional survey can identify potential vulnerabilities and provide tailored advice for winter-proofing your home.

 

Need Expert Advice?

At Rivercrest Surveyors, we’re here to help you keep your home in top condition, whatever the season. From identifying damp risks to assessing structural issues, our expertise ensures peace of mind during the colder months. Take a look at our Level 2 Homebuyer Surveys and Level 3 Building Surveys in order to locate any potential snags in your home in the South of England.

With our RICS-certified surveyors, you can trust our team to guide you. Call 023 8129 0888 to book a homebuyer survey for your property in the south of England, or complete our contact form.