Weatherproof Your Home Before Winter Hits

As we step into October, the days are already feeling shorter and the air in the south of Scotland has a chill that reminds us winter isn’t far away. Up here in the Borders, we know how quickly the weather can turn – one minute it’s mild and damp, the next we’re dealing with frost, gales, or even early snow. That’s why October is the perfect month to get your home ready. 

A little time spent on weatherproofing now will keep your home warmer, help reduce energy bills, and protect against costly damage later in the season. Here are our top tips to prepare your home before winter really hits. 

Draught-Proofing

Draughts might seem small, but they can make a big difference to your comfort. 

  • Windows and Doors: Check around the frames for gaps and fit draught excluder strips where needed. For larger gaps, a flexible external sealant such as Soudal Frame Sealant stands up to wind and rain. 
  • Letterboxes and Keyholes: It’s amazing how much cold air sneaks in here. Simple excluders will sort it quickly. 
  • Floors and Skirting: Old houses, especially, can have gaps in floorboards or around skirtings. A quick bead of caulk will keep the draughts at bay. 

Insulation – Keep the Heat In

Heating is one of the biggest expenses over winter, so insulation is well worth the effort. 

  • Loft Insulation: Most of a home’s heat escapes through the roof. Ensure your loft insulation reaches the recommended depth (at least 270mm) to retain the warmth. 
  • Cavity Walls: If your home has cavity walls, check if they’re insulated. It makes a big difference in how much heat stays in your home. 
  • Pipes and Tanks: Insulating exposed pipes, especially in lofts, garages, or outside, helps prevent frozen bursts when the temperature dips. Foam sleeves are easy to fit and help reduce heat loss. For outside taps, use an insulating tap cover or drain them fully before the frost arrives.

Sealants and Repairs 

The Scottish weather is famously damp, so keeping moisture out is key. 

  • Windows and Frames: Reseal any cracked or peeling caulk around windows and doors. It’ll help keep out draughts and rain. 
  • Bathrooms and Kitchens: Indoors, don’t forget to check silicone sealants around sinks and baths. Winter is not the time to discover a leak. 
  • Exterior Walls: Walk around your property and look for cracks in render, stone, or pointing. Even small gaps can let water in, which then expands as it freezes, exacerbating the problem. A quick fix now prevents big headaches later. 

Declutter Your Gutters 

Clearing gutters isn’t the most exciting job - but it’s one of the most important at this time of year. 

High winds and heavy rain in the Borders often leave gutters full of leaves, moss, and twigs. If water can’t drain properly, it will overflow, leading to damp walls, damage to brickwork, or even flooded foundations. 

Give your gutters and downpipes a thorough clean while the weather is still mild. Check joints and brackets too, making sure they’re secure. Insurance companies may sometimes request information about maintenance after a water claim, so a quick clean now is really worth it. 

Roof and Loft Checks 

A leaking roof in winter is the last thing you want to deal with. 

  • Tiles and Slates: From ground level, look for missing, cracked, or slipped pieces – especially after a storm. 
  • Loft Space: While checking your insulation, look for damp patches, staining, or mould. These are early signs of roof or ventilation issues. 
  • Stay Ahead: Even small gaps can lead to costly leaks, so address problems promptly rather than waiting. 

Don’t Forget Your PPE

While you’re tackling weatherproofing jobs around the house, it’s important to stay safe. Clearing gutters, sealing windows, or working with insulation can all involve dust, debris, or working at height - so the right personal protective equipment (PPE) makes a big difference.

Why Weatherproofing Matters 

Here in the south of Scotland, where we face long months of wind, rain, and frost, weatherproofing is essential. Preparing your home now means fewer nasty surprises, lower heating costs, and a much cosier winter indoors. 

At Pearsons, we’ve got everything you need to get started – from insulation rolls and foam pipe sleeves to flexible sealants, guttering supplies, and roof fixings. Our Builders’ Merchant team is always happy to give advice tailored to your home and budget. 

Did you enjoy this blog? Yes! Why not sign up for our newsletter to be the first to know when our next blog from the team is live.