The Top 5 Most Important Home Maintenance Tips This Winter
Winter puts extra strain on your home. Shorter days, colder temperatures, and heavier rainfall can quickly turn small issues into expensive problems if they’re ignored. Now is the time to protect your property, improve comfort, and avoid emergency repairs when trades are hardest to book. Here are five practical home maintenance priorities to focus on this winter.
1. Keep gutters and downpipes clear
Blocked gutters are one of the most common causes of winter damage. Leaves and debris stop water from draining properly, leading to overflow, damp patches, and even damage to brickwork and foundations once freezing temperatures set in. This can be an easy job with a ladder and some simple cleaning equipment; however, Handyman Ben recommends that if you live in a two-storey house, the roof is steep, or the gutters are heavily blocked, it’s worth calling in a professional.
If you’re short on time or access is difficult, The Handy Squad gutter cleaners can take care of gutter cleaning quickly and safely, helping prevent water-related issues before heavy rain and frost arrive. If you’re based in London, The Handy Squad’s team of handymen will be available for any odd job, decorating, home maintenance and more.
2. Draught-proof doors and windows
The Handy Squad also deal with draught proofing regularly in winter. Heat loss through gaps around doors, windows, and floorboards can significantly increase energy bills during winter. Simple draught-proofing measures, such as seals, brushes, or temporary covers, make a noticeable difference to warmth and comfort. In fact, you could potentially save hundreds of pounds a year in Great Britain, especially if you have a chimney – according to the Energy Saving Trust.
3. Check your boiler and heating system
Your boiler works hardest in winter, so it’s essential to make sure it’s running efficiently. If you haven’t had a recent service, now is the time. Bleeding radiators, checking pressure, and ensuring thermostats are working properly can all improve performance.
A well-maintained heating system not only keeps your home comfortable but also reduces the risk of breakdowns during cold snaps.
4. Inspect roof tiles and external brickwork
Winter storms can expose weaknesses in roofs and walls. Missing or cracked tiles allow water in, while damaged pointing can let moisture seep into brickwork, leading to damp or internal damage over time.
A visual inspection from ground level is a good start. If anything looks loose or damaged, it’s best to address it before strong winds or frost make repairs more urgent and costly.
5. Protect pipes and outdoor areas from frost
Frozen pipes are a major winter risk, particularly in lofts, garages, and external walls. Insulating exposed pipework helps prevent bursts and expensive water damage. Outside, remember to drain garden taps and store hoses away.
Taking these steps also reduces disruption if temperatures drop suddenly, which is becoming more common during UK winters.
Winter home maintenance doesn’t need to be complicated, but it does need to be timely. By dealing with these five areas early, you can protect your property, reduce running costs, and enjoy a warmer, more reliable home throughout the colder months.
Top photo by Mark Hamilton on Unsplash
