How to Prepare Your House for Winter: Essential Home Maintenance Tips
Winter in the UK can be tough on your home. Cold temperatures, heavy rain, and freezing winds all put your property at risk of damage. Taking a little time now to prepare your house for winter can save you money, prevent damp and mould, and keep your family safe and warm.
Follow this winter-ready checklist to protect your home this season.
- Service Your Heating System
Before the cold weather sets in, book a professional boiler service and check your radiators. Bleed radiators to improve efficiency, test your thermostat, and consider upgrading to smart heating controls to cut energy costs.
- Prevent Damp and Mould in Winter
Condensation, leaks, and poor ventilation make mould worse during the colder months. To prevent damp:
- Use a dehumidifier in bedrooms and living spaces
- Open windows or use extractor fans in bathrooms and kitchens
- Check for leaks in roofs, windows, and pipework
- Hire professional drying equipment after leaks or floods
- Protect Your Pipes from Freezing
Frozen or burst pipes can cause thousands of pounds worth of water damage. Insulate pipes in lofts, garages, and external walls. If you’re away from home, keep heating on a low setting to prevent freezing. Always know where your stopcock is in case of emergencies.
- Check Your Roof, Gutters, and Drains
Leaves, debris, and storms can block gutters and damage your roof. Before winter:
- Clear gutters and downpipes
- Inspect for missing tiles or cracked flashing
- Make sure drains are free-flowing
- Seal Drafts Around Windows and Doors
Draft-proofing helps reduce energy bills and keeps your home warmer. Use draft excluders, window film, or professional sealing to block cold air. Even simple DIY fixes can make a huge difference.
- Be Ready for Storms and Power Cuts
UK winters often bring high winds and heavy rain. Secure loose items in the garden, check fences, and keep a storm kit with a torch, batteries, and blankets in case of power cuts.
By following this winter home maintenance guide, you’ll protect your house from damage, prevent mould and damp, and avoid costly repairs.
Need support with leaks, flooding, or drying out damp spaces? At Hire4Homes, we supply professional drying equipment hire from all leading manufacturers — helping you keep your property winter-ready.
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