Maintaining a park home during the autumn and winter months is crucial to ensure comfort and longevity. Here are some simple maintenance ideas:

1. Check and Clear Gutters

Why: Fallen leaves and debris can clog gutters, leading to water damage.
Action: Regularly clean gutters and downspouts to prevent blockages. Consider installing gutter guards to minimize debris buildup.

2. Inspect Roof and Exterior

Why: Harsh weather can cause leaks or structural damage.
Action: Look for any loose or damaged tiles, cracks in the roof, or wear in the exterior render or cladding. Repair any issues promptly to prevent water ingress.

3. Seal Drafts and Insulate

Why: Drafts can make your home cold and increase heating costs.
Action: Check windows and doors for drafts, seal gaps with weather stripping or caulk, and add thermal curtains for extra insulation.Be sure not to block ventilation strips as the home still needs some airflow.

4. Service Heating Systems

Why: Efficient heating is vital in cold months.
Action: Have your boiler, heat pump, or central heating system serviced to ensure it’s working efficiently. Bleed radiators where needed to prevent cold spots.

5. Drainage and Flood Protection

Why: Excessive rain can cause flooding around your home.
Action: Ensure your home’s surroundings have proper drainage. Check that any French drains, down pipes or soakaways are clear of debris.

6. Check Underfloor Ventilation

Why: Moisture buildup can cause dampness and mould, and older Park Homes were fitting with vents in the floor to mitigate the chance of this happening.
Action: Make sure any vents are not blocked. Good ventilation prevents moisture buildup under the home.

7. Pipe Insulation

Why: Frozen pipes can burst and cause major damage.
Action: Insulate exposed water pipes, particularly in areas like the crawlspace to prevent freezing.

8. Skirting and Underside Protection

Why: Cold air can cause your home to lose heat from below.
Action: Check the skirting around your park home for damage and repair any holes or gaps. Proper skirting can also prevent pests from getting under your home.  Don’t block vents or air bricks as there still needed to be some airflow under the home to prevent mould.

9. Safety Checks

Why: Safety devices are crucial for peace of mind during winter months.
Action: Test smoke alarms and carbon monoxide detectors. Make sure fire extinguishers and fire blankets are in date and easily accessible.

These small maintenance efforts can help keep your park home cozy, safe, and free from costly repairs during the autumn and winter seasons.