The trade organization offers advice to keep Nottinghamshire homes in the top spot this winter

In line with Maintenance Week, which runs November 18-25, the Property Care Association (PCA) has compiled tips to help shine the spotlight on building maintenance.

The National Trade Organization has identified areas where small steps can be taken now to prevent problems from escalating into a bigger problem during the winter months.

PCA CEO Steve Hodgson said: "With rising energy prices and concerns about the cost of living, people are watching how money is being spent this winter.

Condensation on the windows is a big problem in winter.

"Property maintenance not only helps to make the home more comfortable, but can also reduce costs, not only in terms of heating and energy savings, but also by preventing damage to the building fabric."

In support of Maintenance Week, a campaign by the Society for the Protection of Old Buildings (SPAB), APC's top ten tips for protecting homes this winter include:

Roofs: ensure cracked or slipped shingles are dealt with; Otherwise the water has an easy path to the property. In the absence of a secondary felt, the problem can be particularly damaging.

Gutters – Gutters and downspouts need to be properly maintained to ensure they provide a quick escape route for water from a building. Even a small blockage can cause problems. Make sure the drains are free of moss, leaves, and debris, and check that the entire system is properly connected and free of bad gaskets.

Steve Hodgson, Executive Director of the Property Care Association.

Air quality: In winter, the air is more polluted with water, which means that problems such as condensation and even humidity and mold can occur. Fans and air management systems are an important method of solving this problem. So make sure maintenance and repairs are up to date and the right equipment is specified for your property's needs. The maintenance and cleaning of the ventilation ducts is essential for the proper functioning of the systems.

Temperature Control: Effective ventilation is the most effective method of reducing condensation, combined with low background heat for as long as possible. This can actually be more energy efficient than turning the heating on at a higher temperature at certain times, as it helps to balance indoor and outdoor temperatures, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming when heating. Brief, intense bursts of heat in a room are not efficient uses of energy.

Joints and plaster – When damaged, loose or eroded, water can enter a building, especially when it rains heavily. Pay particular attention to the weather side of a property.

Window and door openings: Check the seal between the frame and brickwork as it can deteriorate and allow rain to penetrate.

Drains: Gullys and drains must be able to drain water quickly. If you are unable to escape due to leaves and other debris, local flooding can occur, especially during heavy downpours.

More details about the Property Care Association and the work of its members can be found at www.property-care.org/

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