As the UK’s storm season sets in, homes and commercial buildings across the country are tested, but older and heritage buildings often feel it more. From draughty windows to leaking roofs, traditional materials and designs mean these properties can need extra care when the weather turns cold, wet, and windy.
This blog explores small but effective ways to protect your heritage building, save money, prevent damage, and stay comfortable through the winter.
1. Keep the rain out: gutters, downpipes and roofs
Blocked gutters and cracked downpipes can quickly lead to leaks and water damage, particularly during prolonged periods of rain. Regularly clearing debris and checking for blockages keeps water moving away from the walls and foundations rather than soaking into them. It’s also worth remembering that drier building fabrics are far cheaper to heat; it takes a surprising amount of energy to warm up moisture held within walls, floors and roofs, so keeping water out directly supports lower heating bills.
Likewise, inspecting the roof for loose slates or tiles can help prevent moisture finding its way inside and causing costly internal damage during storms.
2. Cut the draughts, not the character
Heritage homes often lose heat through ill-fitting doors and windows. Weatherstripping and discreet draught-proofing can make a noticeable difference without altering the building’s appearance. Reducing air leaks not only keeps interiors warmer but also helps lower energy bills during extended cold spells.
3. Prepare your heating system
Before the worst weather hits, bleeding radiators ensures they’re running efficiently and delivering consistent warmth. In older buildings where heat loss can be high, every bit of efficiency counts it’s a simple, quick job that can make your system more effective when you need it most.
4. Make use of windy weather
High winds aren’t all bad news they can mean lower-cost, low-emission electricity on dynamic tariffs. If your home uses modern energy solutions, such as smart meters or variable tariffs, keeping an eye on when wind energy peaks could save you money while reducing carbon impact.
5. Manage airflow and prevent unnecessary heat loss
Ventilation is vital for heritage buildings, but too much can make interiors uncomfortably cold. Adjusting or temporarily closing a proportion of vents in extreme weather can strike a balance between preventing damp and retaining warmth. Windbreaks, such as hedges or fencing, can also reduce direct wind exposure and the rate of heat loss from external walls.
Caring for a heritage property through winter doesn’t need to be complicated. Regular checks, simple maintenance, and a few smart adjustments can go a long way toward keeping your building warm, dry, and efficient, without compromising its character. If you’re unsure where to start, our expert team can help you assess your building’s condition and find the most effective, sympathetic improvements for your home.
If you own a heritage building or home, talk to us about improving its comfort and performance this winter. Get in touch with us today.