The change in seasons can creep up fast. One week it’s mild, and the next you’re reaching for the heating and wondering if that drip from the gutter has always been there. Winter weather has a way of finding every small weakness around the home, so now’s the perfect time to get ahead of it, especially here in Eastbourne where sea air and salt can make things a little tougher on roofs and exteriors.
Your roof does a lot of heavy lifting through the winter. A quick visual check can save you a world of trouble later. Look for cracked or missing tiles, and if you can see moss or algae building up, it’s worth getting that cleared before it traps water and causes frost damage. Gutters and downpipes also deserve a clean-out. Leaves and debris might seem harmless, but once they block the flow, rainwater has nowhere to go except into places it shouldn’t.
Living by the coast is a gift, but the salty air does take its toll. Flaking paint, rust on railings, or discolouration on cladding are all early warning signs that protective coatings need a refresh. A few hours of maintenance now helps your home stand up better against the winter wind and rain.
Cold drafts and damp patches can creep in when temperatures drop. Check around your windows and doors for gaps, even small ones can make a big difference. If your heating system hasn’t been serviced yet, book it in soon to make sure it’s running safely and efficiently. Good ventilation matters too, so open windows when you can and use extractor fans to stop moisture from settling and turning into mould.
Wet leaves, frost, and uneven paths can be a slip waiting to happen. Keep walkways clear and tidy, and if you’ve got metal gates or fixtures, give them a quick once-over for rust. Coastal homes often need this extra bit of care as salt and humidity can speed up corrosion faster than you might expect.
Taking these small steps now will make your home safer, warmer, and ready for whatever winter brings. If you’d rather have a professional take a look, local roofers and property maintenance experts are always happy to help.
Need local services to help? Check out our Property Services Directory in Eastbourne for some highly recommended and trusted trades serving Eastbourne and many the wider East Sussex area.
